King Mohammed VI has called on Morocco to prioritize sustainable development and the protection of its coastlines, urging a national commitment to balance economic growth with environmental preservation. In his address to Parliament marking the opening of the legislative year, the monarch emphasized the strategic importance of Morocco’s extensive coastline, which spans over 3,500 kilometers and serves as a vital resource for the country’s emerging blue economy. He stressed that development along coastal areas must be guided by long-term ecological responsibility, not short-term profit, and called for the urgent implementation of the National Coastal Plan to ensure that natural assets are preserved for future generations.
The King’s remarks come amid growing public concern over environmental degradation, climate change, and the unchecked expansion of urban and industrial projects along Morocco’s shores. He acknowledged the voices of youth and civil society, who have increasingly demanded stronger climate action and more inclusive environmental policies. By placing coastal protection at the heart of his legislative agenda, King Mohammed VI signaled a shift toward more integrated and sustainable governance, where environmental stewardship is not a secondary concern but a central pillar of national development.
He also highlighted the need for stricter enforcement of existing laws governing coastal management, pointing out that regulatory gaps and weak oversight have allowed for harmful practices that threaten marine ecosystems and biodiversity. The monarch urged government institutions, local authorities, and private stakeholders to work together in building a resilient framework that safeguards Morocco’s ecological heritage while promoting economic opportunity. This includes investing in clean technologies, supporting coastal communities, and ensuring that infrastructure projects are aligned with environmental standards.
King Mohammed VI’s call to action reflects Morocco’s broader ambition to lead by example in sustainable development across the region. As the country continues to modernize its economy and expand its infrastructure, the emphasis on coastal preservation serves as a reminder that true progress must be inclusive, equitable, and environmentally conscious. The coming months will be critical in translating this vision into concrete policies and actions, with the potential to redefine Morocco’s development model and inspire similar efforts across Africa and beyond.