In a national address to commemorate the 23rd anniversary of his accession to the throne, HM King Mohammed VI spoke of relations with Algeria and assured Algerians that Morocco and the Moroccans will always be on their side, no matter what and in all circumstances.
In keeping with his keen desire to address Morocco’s priorities at the regional and international levels, he stressed that the borders separating the two brotherly Moroccan and Algerian peoples will never stand in the way of the interaction and understanding between the two peoples.
“In fact, we want these borders to serve as bridges for building a common future for Morocco and Algeria, and thus set the example for other peoples in the Maghreb,” he said.
He called upon Moroccans to continue to adhere to the principles of brotherhood, solidarity, and good-neighbourliness that binds Morocco with their Algerian brothers and sisters.
As for the allegations accusing Moroccans of insulting Algeria and Algerians, he rebuked those who irresponsibly make them.
“What is being said about Moroccan-Algerian relations is both unreasonable and deeply distressing. We do not and shall not allow anyone to adversely affect the relations with our neighbours or who seek to ignite the flame of strife between the two brotherly peoples,” he said.
“As Moroccans, we are keen to find a way out of the current situation and to promote closer ties, interaction and understanding between the two peoples,” he went on to say.
“I look forward to cooperating with the Algerian presidency so that Morocco and Algeria may work hand in hand and enjoy normal relations between the two brotherly peoples, who are bound by historical and human ties as well as a common destiny,” he concluded.
In this wide ranging policy speech, he also spoke of the need to strengthen social stability by enhancing the status of women and the family and boosting the national economy. He stressed that progress in Morocco hinges on women’s status in society and their effective participation in all development sectors.
On the economy, he urged that despite fluctuations noted at global level, there was a need to remain optimistic and focus on Morocco’s strengths.
“We must also seek to leverage the opportunities and possibilities created by the profound changes underway, especially when it comes to attracting investment, boosting export incentives and promoting national products,” he said.
He urged the government and all economic stakeholders to facilitate the mission of foreign investors who choose to come to Morocco in the current global circumstances, and help them to remove any hurdles they may be facing.
“The greatest peril for the country’s development and the promotion of investment are the obstacles intentionally created by those who seek personal gain. These practices must be combatted,” he concluded.
