Twenty-five years ago, a young King Mohammed VI ascended to the Throne of Morocco, inheriting a nation brimming with potential yet facing myriad challenges. Today, as we celebrate 25 years of His Majesty's Reign, it is impossible not to marvel at the extraordinary transformation Morocco has undergone under his visionary leadership.
We vividly remember the sense of hope and anticipation that filled the air when King Mohammed VI first addressed his people. He spoke of a Morocco that would be a beacon of democracy, a land of opportunity, and a nation that uplifts all its citizens. At the time, these might have seemed like lofty dreams. But as we reflect on the past quarter-century, we realize that His Majesty's words were not mere rhetoric, but a prophecy of the Morocco we see today.
One need only look at the political landscape to witness the profound changes that have taken place. Since ascending to the Throne, His Majesty King Mohammed VI has spearheaded a comprehensive program of political reforms in Morocco, marking a significant shift towards democratization and modernization of the country's institutions. The 2011 Constitution stands as a cornerstone of these reforms, strengthening democratic institutions and expanding civil liberties. Under the King's leadership, Morocco has pursued a vision of gradual, cumulative, and uninterrupted constitutional reform, developing an authentic Moroccan democratic model that eschews foreign imports in favor of an inclusive, home-grown approach. This process has been characterized by the consolidation of a multi-party system, regular elections, enhanced women's rights, and gender equality initiatives. Notably, the reforms have empowered citizens through the constitutional right to submit legislative motions and petitions, while also bolstering the powers of the legislative branch and improving women's representation in Parliament. These ongoing efforts reflect Morocco's commitment to fostering a unique democratic path that balances tradition with modernity, setting a distinctive example in the region.
But the transformations extend far beyond the political sphere. Morocco has become an economic powerhouse. Since 1999, the country has experienced significant GDP growth, tripling in just two decades, while diversifying its economy and focusing on key sectors such as automotive, aerospace, renewable energy, and services. This growth has been supported by massive infrastructure projects, including 2,000 km of highways, integrated industrial parks, Africa's largest port in Tangier, and the continent's first high-speed train, “Al Boraq”. The implementation of several major industrial strategies, coupled with the creation of the “Mohammed VI Investment Fund” and the signing of over 50 free trade agreements, has positioned Morocco as a prime investment destination and a gateway to Africa. These initiatives have not only doubled the industrial sector's contribution to GDP but have also attracted multinational giants like Boeing, Renault, and Stellantis, showcasing Morocco's commitment to technological advancement and economic modernization.
Yet, amid this economic boom, the well-being of the people has always remained the most important aspect of development. In this regard, Morocco has embarked on a series of significant social reforms aimed at improving the lives of its citizens and fostering a more equitable society. Since his ascension to the Throne in 1999, the King has championed initiatives that address poverty, promote gender equality, expand social protection, and enhance targeted welfare programs. These reforms, ranging from the National Initiative for Human Development (INDH) launched in 2005 to the recent direct social aid program introduced in late 2023, demonstrate a comprehensive approach to social development. By modernizing the family code, extending healthcare coverage, implementing sophisticated population registries, and providing direct financial assistance to vulnerable families, Morocco has made substantial strides in addressing social inequalities and promoting inclusive growth. These multifaceted efforts reflect a long-term commitment to improving the socio-economic conditions of Moroccan citizens and positioning the country as a leader in progressive social policy within the region.
On the world stage, Morocco has emerged as a diplomatic force to be reckoned with. Our country has become a trusted partner and a voice of reason in an often-turbulent region, strengthening its position as a regional power in Africa and the Arab world, while successfully implementing "economic diplomacy" to become the leading investor in West Africa. Consequently, the Kingdom has achieved significant diplomatic successes, particularly regarding the Sahara issue. The Moroccan foreign policy has diversified, deepening relations with the United States, European Union, and other global powers, while prioritizing South-South cooperation. Simultaneously, the country's ambitious African policy, marked by numerous royal visits and substantial investments, culminated in Morocco's return to the African Union in 2017. Notably, the Kingdom has garnered increasing international support for its autonomy plan for the Sahara, demonstrating both diplomatic finesse and firmness in protecting its interests, positioning Rabat as a key player in addressing global challenges, from climate change to counterterrorism, while promoting a vision of African self-reliance and development.
But perhaps one of the most significant achievements of the past 25 years has been the unwavering commitment to promoting religious moderation and tolerance. In an era where extremism threatens to tear societies apart, Morocco has become a beacon of hope. An ambitious reform of the religious sector, launched in 2004, has restructured key institutions and enhanced the training of imams and spiritual guides. The creation of the Mohammed VI Institute for the training of imams, morchidines, and morchidates in 2015 further solidified Morocco's commitment to promoting a moderate Islam based on the Ash'aari doctrine, Malekite rite, and Sunni Sufism. This approach emphasizes peace, moderation, and the middle path. The King's initiatives extend beyond national borders, fostering interreligious dialogue, as evidenced by Pope Francis's visit in 2019, and disseminating values of tolerance regionally and internationally. Through various programs and institutions, including the Mohammed VI Foundation of African Ulema and the "Al-Raed" platform, Morocco actively combats extremism and hate speech, protecting youth and promoting a moderate Islam across Africa and beyond.
Looking to the future, we are filled with hope. Morocco's ambitious environmental initiatives, from our leadership in renewable energy to our commitment to phasing out coal, position us as a global leader in the fight against climate change. Our comprehensive strategy to combat terrorism and extremism has made us a bastion of stability and security. And our efforts to preserve and promote our rich cultural heritage, from the recognition of Amazigh language and culture to the restoration of historic sites, ensure that our past will continue to enrich our future.
As we reflect on the past 25 years, we are struck by how far we have come. Morocco has experienced a resurgence, a transformation that has touched every aspect of our society. We have become a nation that is stronger, more prosperous, and more united than ever before.
So, as we celebrate this milestone, let us pay tribute to the visionary King who has guided us on this remarkable journey. Let us reaffirm our commitment to the values and ideals that have brought us this far. And let us look to the future with unwavering hope and determination, knowing that together, under His Majesty's wise leadership, there is no limit to what we can achieve.
Morocco's resurgence is not just a story of political, economic, and social progress. It is a story of a nation that has risen to new heights, defied expectations, and charted its own course. It is a story that continues to unfold, and one that we are proud to be a part of.
