peaking via videoconference at the opening of “Bloomberg New Economy Gateway Africa”, Akhannouch emphasized that throughout its history, Morocco has played the role of bridge and “gateway” between Africa and Europe, adding that the establishment of sustainable and reliable partnerships is inscribed in the Kingdom’s DNA.
He highlighted Morocco’s geographical positioning, energy assets and infrastructure, which make Morocco an ideal partner, on a continental and global scale, in the recomposition of today’s value chains.
“Under the impetus of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the Kingdom has established itself as a strategic player in its regional environment,” he said, noting that the very first edition of this forum, held in Morocco, is no coincidence, and will serve to highlight Africa’s considerable potential.
The Head of Government stressed that Africa, with its considerable natural resources and young, talented and qualified population, must be confident in its ability to position itself in global value chains.
“And far from giving in to protectionism, it is in Africa where the African Continental Free Trade Area (ZLECAF), one of the world’s largest free trade zones, was born”, added Akhannouch.
Speaking about the reforms implemented by Morocco, the Head of Government affirmed that the Kingdom had carried out in-depth reforms of its institutions to strengthen its democracy and the rule of law.
The Kingdom has built a solid, diversified economy, underpinned by visionary sectoral strategies, infrastructure of the highest international standards and high-performance industries, he said, adding that Morocco’s financial, agro-industrial, automotive, aeronautical, textile and pharmaceutical sectors, and many others, are now benchmarks in the world.
Akhannouch also highlighted Morocco’s position as Africa’s leading producer of renewable energies, and as a major player in the coming energy transition.
“Under the enlightened leadership of HM King Mohammed VI, Morocco is entering a new phase in its development,” underlined the Head of Government, noting that this is characterized by the building of a Social State based on the generalization of social protection to the entire population, as well as on a profound reform of the education and health systems.
He also recalled that the Kingdom has adopted an Investment Charter, aimed at fostering the emergence of a new generation of entrepreneurs and investors, which will support the expansion and involvement of the private sector. In this context, he affirmed that Morocco, with its attractive business climate, has been widely recognized internationally by several organizations and international rating agencies, testifying to its resilience and its political, economic and social stability.
The 1st African edition of the prestigious Bloomberg New Economy opened in Marrakech on Tuesday, under the theme “Gateway Africa”. This major economic forum is organized by the Bloomberg media group, a leader in economic and financial news, in partnership with the Moroccan Investment and Export Development Agency (AMDIE).
