Morocco strengthens South-South cooperation to support vulnerable nations

Morocco has reaffirmed its dedication to assisting small island developing states, least developed countries (LDCs), and landlocked nations through its South-South cooperation model. The announcement was made by Abdellah Laghmed, Morocco’s Deputy Permanent Representative to UN organizations in Rome, during the 44th General Conference of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on Sunday.

Sharing expertise for sustainable development

Laghmed emphasized Morocco’s focus on sharing its expertise in key areas such as sustainable agriculture, fishing, irrigation management, renewable energy, vocational training, and food systems transformation. These efforts aim to address the specific needs of partner countries, particularly in Africa, and reflect Morocco’s commitment to fostering inclusive development.

Leading climate action initiatives

Morocco’s leadership in climate initiatives was highlighted, including the establishment of three climate commissions for the Congo Basin, the Sahel region, and island states. These commissions were launched during the 22nd Conference of the Parties on Climate Change (COP22) held in Marrakech in 2016.

Laghmed noted that these initiatives align with the vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, who champions Morocco’s proactive and solidarity-based approach to international cooperation. The Kingdom’s efforts extend through bilateral, regional, and international partnerships, showcasing its role as a committed partner in addressing global challenges.

Advancing the Atlantic Initiative

The Royal Atlantic Initiative was also underscored as a strategic framework for enhancing Morocco’s development projects and positioning them within the African Continental Free Trade Area. This initiative envisions transforming the Sahel region into an Atlantic economic corridor by leveraging modern infrastructure, advanced technologies, and structured projects that align with sustainable development goals.

Addressing food security and resilience

The Moroccan diplomat identified structural barriers to food security in vulnerable nations, stressing the need to bolster agricultural production, adapt to climate change, and improve access to technology, financing, and markets. He urged for greater international efforts to transfer technology and ensure food security remains central to development programs targeting small island states, LDCs, and landlocked nations.

Morocco’s cooperation model

Morocco’s South-South cooperation model, grounded in solidarity and tailored solutions, reflects its commitment to supporting vulnerable nations in overcoming development challenges. By prioritizing climate adaptation, food security, and sustainable development, Morocco demonstrates its leadership in fostering resilience and progress across the Global South.