Marruecos: fortalecimiento de la logística
Morocco has succeeded in becoming a global logistics platform on a Mediterranean and continental scale, thanks to its modern infrastructure and extensive network of ports and railway stations, as well as its unique geographical location. The Moroccan Minister of Transport and Logistics, Mohamed Abdeljalil, stressed that Morocco has succeeded in improving its maritime transport capacities and services. This has enabled the Kingdom to become a global logistics destination and integrate the region into the global economy. In addition, Abdeljalil noted that the country has taken advantage of Morocco's unique geopolitical situation to become a hub connecting Europe, Africa and the rest of the world.
The North African country has achieved one of the top positions in the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Maritime Connectivity Index. This is mainly due to the development of the Tangier Med port complex. As highlighted by the minister present at the opening ceremony of the 46th and 17th meeting of scientific research groups on the implementation of relevant provisions of the London Convention of 1972 and its protocol of 1996.
Morocco recognises the importance of maritime transport for economic and social development, and has therefore endeavoured to develop a network of modern port infrastructures meeting international standards. This network is made up of 43 ports along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts, with a length of 3,500 km, and 14 ports dedicated to international trade. These infrastructures enable the North African country to contribute to sustainable development and world economic integration.
Morocco has signed a set of bilateral agreements related to the port sector and commercial shipping. These agreements concern port management, maritime security, protection of the marine environment, search and rescue at sea, and the recognition of certificates of competency for seafarers. This will help the Kingdom consolidate its role as a pioneering country.
The nation has actively participated in the adoption of important marine life conservation measures, such as the Convention on the Establishment of Marine Protected Areas in the Mediterranean. In addition, Morocco is a founding member of the International Authority for the Exploration of the Sea (IHO) and the International Seabed Research Authority (ISBA), as well as the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Morocco has contributed significantly to the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Sea and other international instruments relating to the sea.
Minister Mohamed Abdeljalil stressed the importance of the meeting as it represents an opportunity to address the issue of dumping of waste at sea, including mining waste. This will allow the establishment of guidelines for the selection of sites for dumping waste at sea, the elaboration of site management and control plans, as well as the modalities of disposal of materials resulting from mining in the marine environment. In addition, it stressed "identifying cooperative measures to assess the environmental impacts of waste resulting from the dumping of chemical elements at sea".
The conclave serves to discuss major issues and concerns related to maritime traffic and safety, including safety and pollution prevention, navigational hazards and the conservation of marine resources. Participants have the opportunity here to share their knowledge and experience, as well as to learn from experts about current challenges in this area. This will take the form of seminars, lectures and workshops on specific topics. The aim is to improve the participants' awareness of the challenges and opportunities of the maritime industry.
