Today, July 30, 2024, Morocco marks the 25th anniversary of King Mohammed VI’s ascension to the throne. His Majesty delivered a speech yesterday, reflecting on the nation’s progress and the challenges ahead.
King Mohammed VI expressed pride in the advancements made over the past quarter-century. Political and institutional reforms, economic development projects, and social programs have enhanced social cohesion and access to essential services. Morocco has also strengthened its identity and increased its influence on the regional and international stage.
A critical focus of the speech was the nation’s water crisis, worsened by six consecutive years of drought and climate change. The King acknowledged the severe impact on water reserves and groundwater, calling for urgent and innovative measures to prevent water shortages, especially in rural areas. He urged the completion of the 2020-2027 National Program for the Supply of Drinking Water and Irrigation Water, which has helped mitigate the situation’s severity.
The King called for updating national water policy mechanisms and ensuring a consistent supply of drinking water and irrigation resources. He advocated for completing dam construction programs and prioritizing projects in high-rainfall areas. Additionally, he proposed accelerating large-scale inter-basin water transfer projects and the completion of seawater desalination plants, aiming to cover more than half of Morocco’s drinking water needs by 2030.
The speech also addressed the need for a national water desalination industry, specialized training for engineers and technicians, and creating Moroccan companies focused on desalination plant construction and maintenance. The King stressed the need to protect water resources, set up a water police, and promote drip irrigation and water reclamation initiatives.
King Mohammed VI reiterated his commitment to the Palestinian cause, highlighting Morocco’s efforts to provide humanitarian aid to Gaza and advocating for a two-state solution to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region.
The King concluded by recognizing the contributions of all citizens to national development and expressing gratitude to the Royal Armed Forces, National Security Forces, and other stakeholders for their dedication to the country’s unity, security, and stability. He invoked a Quranic verse, encouraging hope and divine support in facing the Kingdom’s challenges.
