King Mohammed VI delivered a speech this evening, Tuesday, on the occasion of the Throne Day, marking the 26th anniversary of his ascension to the throne.
Text of the Royal Speech:
“Thank God, and may peace and blessings be upon our Master, the Messenger of God, his family, and his companions.
Dear People,
Celebrating Throne Day is an annual occasion to renew the bonds of mutual allegiance, love, and loyalty that unite us, which time only strengthens.
It is also an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s situation: our achievements, the projects and challenges ahead, and to look confidently and optimistically toward the future.
Since my ascension to the throne, we have worked to build a progressive, united, and cohesive Morocco by promoting comprehensive economic and human development, ensuring our position among emerging nations.
What our country has achieved is not coincidental; it is the result of a long-term vision, sound major developmental choices, and the political and institutional security enjoyed by Morocco.
Based on this solid foundation, we have focused on enhancing the economic and social ascent in line with the new development model, establishing a competitive and diversified economy within a sound and stable macroeconomic framework.
Despite recurring drought years and escalating international crises, the national economy has maintained significant and steady growth in recent years.
Morocco is witnessing an unprecedented industrial renaissance, with industrial exports more than doubling since 2014, particularly those linked to Morocco’s global professions.
Thanks to the strategic directions adopted, the automotive, aerospace, renewable energy, food industries, and tourism sectors are now essential drivers for our rising economy, both in terms of investments and job creation.
Morocco stands out for its diverse partnerships, being an investment destination and a responsible and reliable partner, with our national economy linked to nearly three billion consumers worldwide through free trade agreements.
Additionally, Morocco possesses modern and robust infrastructure that meets global standards.
To further enhance these infrastructures, we have recently launched the extension works for the high-speed train line connecting Kenitra and Marrakech, along with various major projects in water and food security and energy sovereignty.
Dear People,
You know well that I would not be satisfied, regardless of the level of economic development and infrastructure, if it did not lead to tangible improvements in living conditions for citizens from all social groups in all regions. Therefore, we have continuously prioritized human development, expanding social protection, and providing direct support to deserving families.
The results of the national census of 2024 have revealed significant demographic, social, and spatial transformations that must be considered in preparing and implementing public policies.
For example, there has been a substantial decrease in multidimensional poverty at the national level, from 11.9% in 2014 to 6.8% in 2024.
This year, Morocco has also surpassed the threshold of the Human Development Index, placing it among countries with “high human development.”
Unfortunately, some regions, especially rural areas, still suffer from poverty and vulnerability due to a lack of infrastructure and basic services.
This is inconsistent with our vision for Morocco today and our efforts to enhance social development and achieve spatial justice.
There is no place today or tomorrow for a two-speed Morocco.
Dear People,
It is time for a genuine leap in the comprehensive rehabilitation of local territories and addressing social and spatial inequalities.
Thus, we call for a transition from traditional approaches to social development to an integrated territorial development approach.
Our goal is for the fruits of progress and development to encompass all citizens in all regions without discrimination or exclusion.
To this end, we have directed the government to adopt a new generation of territorial development programs based on valuing local specificities, reinforcing advanced regionalization, and the principles of integration and solidarity among territorial areas.
These programs should unite the efforts of various stakeholders around clear priorities and impactful projects concerning, in particular:
- Support for employment by leveraging regional economic capabilities and providing a conducive environment for local initiative and investment;
- Strengthening basic social services, particularly in education and health care, to preserve the dignity of citizens and uphold spatial justice;
- Implementing proactive and sustainable management of water resources in light of increasing water stress and climate change;
- Launching integrated territorial rehabilitation projects in alignment with major national projects in the country.
Dear People,
As we approach the upcoming legislative elections within their constitutional timeline, we emphasize the necessity of providing a comprehensive system governing the elections of the House of Representatives, to be adopted and known before the end of the current year.
In this context, we have given our royal directives to the Minister of Interior for the proper preparation for the next legislative elections and to open discussions with various stakeholders.
Dear People,
In parallel with our commitment to asserting Morocco’s position as an emerging country, we reaffirm our openness to our regional environment, particularly concerning our immediate neighbor, the brotherly Algerian people.
As King of Morocco, my position is clear and consistent: The Algerian people are our brothers, linked by deep-rooted human and historical relations, and united by language, religion, geography, and a shared destiny.
Therefore, I have always sought to extend my hand to our Algerian brothers, expressing Morocco’s readiness for sincere and responsible dialogue regarding various outstanding issues between our two countries.
Our steadfast belief in extending our hand to our Algerian brothers stems from our conviction in the unity of our peoples and our ability to jointly overcome this unfortunate situation.
We also reaffirm our commitment to the Maghreb Union, confident that it cannot be achieved without the involvement of Morocco and Algeria alongside other brotherly nations.
Additionally, we take pride in the increasing international support for the autonomy initiative as the sole solution to the dispute over the Moroccan Sahara.
In this context, we extend our sincere thanks to the friendly United Kingdom and the Republic of Portugal for their constructive stance supporting the autonomy initiative within Morocco’s sovereignty over its Sahara, strengthening the positions of many countries worldwide.
As much as we cherish these stances that advocate for rights and legitimacy, we equally express our commitment to finding a consensual solution that satisfies all parties.
Dear People,
On the occasion of the commemoration of Throne Day, we extend our salute and appreciation to all components of our armed forces, the Royal Gendarmerie, local administration, national security, auxiliary forces, and civil protection for their dedication and constant mobilization under our leadership to defend the unity, security, and stability of our nation.
We also solemnly remember the pure souls of Morocco’s noble martyrs, foremost among them our grandfather and father, the revered kings Mohammed V and Hassan II, may God bless their resting places.
In conclusion, we recall His saying: “Let them worship the Lord of this House who fed them from hunger and secured them from fear.” God is truthful and powerful. Peace be upon you and God’s mercy and blessings.”
