Presse Nationale

Press Review: Government, Transport, Diplomacy, and the 2026 World Cup Dominate the News

Friday 26 June 2026 - 07:25

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The Moroccan press this Friday highlights news dominated by several strategic issues, ranging from government decisions to transport infrastructure, international cooperation, sports performances, and economic reforms. Various media also reflect on the Kingdom's diplomatic initiatives and several structural projects aimed at supporting its development.

The Government Continues Its Reforms

Among the main announcements reported by the media is the government's decision to revert to legal time (GMT) starting at the end of summer. According to statements from the Head of Government, Aziz Akhannouch, this measure responds to the expectations expressed by part of the population after several years of debate regarding the maintenance of GMT+1.

The press also emphasizes the Executive's willingness to modernize several regulatory frameworks. A revision of the decree related to public markets is notably in preparation to improve transparency, further support national businesses, simplify public procurement procedures, and better integrate social and territorial dimensions in the awarding of contracts.

Security Cooperation and Diplomatic Action

Newspapers also cover the meeting held in Rabat between Abdellatif Hammouchi, Director General of National Security and Territorial Surveillance, and the Iraqi ambassador to Morocco. Discussions focused on developing cooperation in the areas of public security, intelligence, police training, and the exchange of expertise.

On the diplomatic front, several headlines highlight the Kingdom's intense activity. His Majesty King Mohammed VI sent congratulatory messages to His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, on the anniversary of his accession to power, as well as to the President of the Republic of Slovenia, Nataša Pirc Musar, on the occasion of her country's national holiday.

The press also revisits the meeting between Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and Crispin Mbadu Phanzu, envoy of the Democratic Republic of Congo, who carried a message from President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi to His Majesty King Mohammed VI.

Mobility and Investments in the Spotlight

The media highlight the positive momentum recorded by the transport sector. Air traffic continues to progress with over 12 million travelers recorded by the end of April, confirming the sector's recovery.

In the same spirit, the launch of the new bus station in Kénitra is presented as an important step in modernizing mobility infrastructure. This project is set to serve as a model for future bus stations to be developed in several cities across the Kingdom.

Morocco is also strengthening its regional role in transport policies after officially taking over the presidency of the Group of Transport Ministers of Western Mediterranean (GTMO 5+5) for the period 2026-2028.

2026 World Cup: Excitement Surrounding the Atlas Lions

Morocco's qualification for the Round of 16 in the 2026 World Cup occupies a significant place in the daily newspapers. The performances of the Atlas Lions are praised, as is their ability to manage the most challenging moments during their match against Haiti.

To support fans, Royal Air Maroc will implement an exceptional program of twelve special flights connecting Casablanca to Monterrey. This operation will transport over 3,000 travelers to Mexico to support the national team.

Economy, Water, and Consumer Protection

On the economic front, Bank Al-Maghrib reports a slowdown in the real estate market in the first quarter of 2026, marked by a decline in prices and a significant drop in the number of transactions.

The media also discuss the National Water Plan for 2050, which aims to enhance the Kingdom's water security through better resource management and reducing losses in distribution networks.

Finally, in the craft sector, authorities aim to strengthen health standards by gradually banning the use of tar in the production of pottery intended for food use, to better protect consumers and improve product quality.