Rabat — Morocco has earned recognition from the United Nations’ top trade official as a leading example of successful economic development and cross-border cooperation.
Rebecca Grynspan, who leads the UN Conference on Trade and Development, commended the North African country during talks with Moroccan officials in Geneva this week.
Speaking after her Wednesday meeting with Morocco’s Industry and Trade Minister Ryad Mezzour, Grynspan singled out Morocco’s approach to port operations, streamlined trade systems, and collaborative projects between government and the private sector.
“Morocco serves as a model for us,” Grynspan said, pointing to the country’s success in sharing its know-how with other developing nations through South-South partnerships.
Resisting global investment trends
The UNCTAD chief drew attention to Morocco’s ability to attract foreign investment even as global capital flows declined. She credited the country’s efforts to diversify its economy and build up manufacturing capabilities for this success.
Morocco’s Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, Ambassador Omar Zniber, and Trade Director General Abdelouahed Rahal joined the discussion, which examined partnership opportunities in food security, logistics, and commerce between Morocco and UNCTAD.
Royal initiative captures attention
King Mohammed VI’s Atlantic Initiative emerged as a focal point of the conversation. The plan seeks to bind Atlantic-facing African nations closer together through shared development, improved connections, and mutual support among developing countries.
“The Secretary-General showed strong interest in His Majesty the King’s Atlantic Initiative,” Mezzour said, describing their exchange as highly productive.
The minister stressed that Morocco continues to build its profile as a dependable strategic partner that offers workable blueprints for development that other countries can adapt.
During his Geneva visit for UNCTAD’s 16th session, which runs through Wednesday, Mezzour also met with leaders from various UN agencies, international organizations, and government ministers from other countries.
He chaired a ministerial gathering of the Global System of Trade Preferences among Developing Countries as well.
