Morocco’s steadfast commitment to Africa and its efforts to promote inclusive ocean governance took center stage at two high-level side events held on Tuesday in Nice, France, as part of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC-3).
Participating in both side events, Zakia Driouich, Secretary of State in charge of Maritime Fisheries, emphasized the joint efforts of states, environmental institutions, and civil society actors to make the ocean a lever for sustainable development, regional integration, and South-South solidarity.
The first event, organized by the Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection under the theme “Innovation in Africa to Accelerate the Global Implementation of SDG 14,” provided an opportunity for Driouich to reaffirm Morocco’s commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 14 through innovation and African cooperation.
Commending the Foundation’s pioneering role, she underscored Africa’s ambition to establish a cooperative model of ocean governance, as reflected in the Blue Africa Summit and the Tangier Declaration. Driouich also spoke of integrating technological, social, and institutional innovation at the core of African maritime strategies, while advocating for stronger African representation in international forums and the recognition of the continent’s potential.
Morocco, she stated, positions itself as a key driver of “blue diplomacy,” placing the ocean at the service of sustainable development, peace, and sovereignty of African nations.
Themed "Africa’s blue ambition for UNOC3: Morocco’s commitment to regional cooperation," the second side event was organized by the Secretary of State in charge of Maritime Fisheries.
This meeting highlighted Morocco’s promotion of inclusive ocean governance, based on science, diplomacy, the blue economy and South-South cooperation.
These two events, which fully align with the Atlantic Vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, helped put forth the African priorities at UNOC-3 and strengthen regional blue economy synergies while supporting the implementation of international ocean actions.
MAP: 11 June 2025
