Strengthening Parliamentary Cooperation: Morocco’s Endeavors
Alalam24, During the closing session of the eleventh legislative year of the twelfth legislative term in 2022-2023, the President of the Consultative Council, Naima Meara, emphasized the council’s commitment to further strengthen bilateral and multilateral parliamentary cooperation on various geopolitical levels to defend Morocco’s strategic and vital issues, with the national cause at the forefront
Mr. Meara highlighted the council’s efforts in diplomatic dynamics, engaging with activities of regional, continental, and international parliamentary organizations. Notably, he participated as the President of the Association of Senates, Shura Councils, and Equivalent Councils in Africa and the Arab World in the tenth consultative meeting of this regional parliamentary organization held in Eswatini
During this visit, bilateral discussions were held with parliamentary and government officials of Eswatini, resulting in the signing of a memorandum of understanding. Mr. Meara pointed out that this participation provided an opportunity for coordination talks with various present council presidents
Furthermore, the council’s involvement during this legislative session extended to the opening session of the sixth legislative term of the African Parliament, which took place in Midrand, South Africa. There, Mr. Meara engaged in bilateral talks with participating government and parliamentary figures, including the current President of the African Union from the United Comoros
The inauguration of the extended premises of “King Mohammed VI Library” at the Latin America and Caribbean Parliament headquarters in Cape Verde was considered a significant event. The event was graced by the First Lady of Panama and several members of the diplomatic corps accredited to Panama, along with presidents of invited parliamentary blocs
The council’s participation in the third summit of the Parliamentary Forum for Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean (AFROLAC) provided an opportunity to hold discussions with the Panamanian Minister of Foreign Affairs. During the summit, the council delivered a speech before the General Assembly of the Latin American and Caribbean Parliament. Additionally, Mr. Meara served as the President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean during the 49th session of the Bureau of this regional parliamentary organization
Regarding Morocco’s permanent national delegation and the council’s delegations, Mr. Meara indicated their active participation in various committees associated with the Parliamentary Assembly of La Francophonie, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union for the Mediterranean, and the Association of Senates, Shura Councils, and Equivalent Councils in Africa and the Arab World
Concerning regional and international events, Mr. Meara highlighted the organization of the International Parliamentary Conference on Dialogue among Religions in Marrakech, under the auspices of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. The conference’s proceedings were notable for the Royal Message directed to participants, reflecting Morocco’s tolerant and historical coexistence
Moreover, the council conducted bilateral meetings during this period with government and diplomatic figures, national and regional parliamentary presidents, as well as international institutions and organizations
In the context of the partnership agreement between the Moroccan Parliament and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Moroccans Residing Abroad, represented by its Diplomatic Academy, the Moroccan Parliament hosted four seminars in May and June on “Morocco’s Foreign Policy”
To enrich public discourse, Mr. Meara mentioned that the council organized the inaugural session of the Parliamentary Forum for Professional Chambers under the theme “Professional Chambers and the Challenges of Economic Development.” He appreciated the efforts of parliamentary groups and standing thematic committees in organizing various events
In a different context, Mr. Meara commemorated the celebrations of the Throne Day, highlighting the significant achievements made under the wise leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. Among these successes, the notable recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces and the decision to open a consulate in Dakhla were mentioned, as confirmed by the recent Israeli decision, lauded by His Majesty as “right and insightful”
In conclusion, Morocco’s parliamentary engagements at various levels demonstrate its dedication to fostering bilateral and multilateral partnerships in regional and global forums, ultimately serving the nation’s strategic interests and reinforcing its international standing
