Nice: Ivorian Minister of the Environment, Jacques Assahor© Konan, praised the initiatives launched by Morocco, under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, for ocean preservation and sustainable development in Africa. “In a global context marked by the climate emergency, this African mobilization, driven by the Sovereign, holds historic significance,” Assahor© Konan told MAP at the “Africa for the Ocean” Summit, held in the French Riviera capital, and co-chaired by Morocco and France.
According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, Assahor© Konan highlighted Morocco’s leading role in promoting an inclusive and resilient blue economy, emphasizing that this is the first time the African continent has come together in a coordinated effort to “make its blue voice heard on maritime and oceanic issues.”
“We welcome this initiative with great pride and deep appreciation, as it responds to an urgent need for coordination, solidarity, and joint action in the face of environmental challenges that transcend national borders,” he stated.
He further stressed that Africa is no longer destined to be a continent to be assisted. It has the capabilities, talent, and vision to bring forward sustainable solutions. “This is fully embodied in the Moroccan initiative, which we warmly commend.”
The Ivorian minister also underscored the importance of strengthened South-South cooperation to address climate and environmental challenges, calling for strategic partnerships that would enable Africa to harness its marine resources in a sustainable and equitable framework.
The “Africa for the Ocean” Summit, co-chaired by HRH Princess Lalla Hasnaa, Representative of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, and French President Emmanuel Macron, was held in the presence of several heads of state and government – notably from Africa – as well as UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres, and high-level representatives of international organizations and multilateral development banks.