Morocco Opens New Consulate General in Miami
Doha – Morocco inaugurated a new consulate general in Miami on Monday, establishing a diplomatic presence to serve Moroccan communities across nearly 20 southern US states. The ceremony took place in the presence of American officials, local elected representatives, and members of the Moroccan community.
The consular structure aligns with King Mohammed VI's directives to meet the expectations of Moroccans living abroad (MREs) through proximity and efficiency.
Morocco's Ambassador to the United States, Youssef Amrani, addressed the inauguration ceremony. He stated that opening this consulate demonstrates 'the Kingdom's deep attachment to its community established abroad, and a clear will to accompany them with proximity, efficiency and dignity.'
Amrani noted the Miami consulate fits fully within the King's vision for profound reform of public policies toward Moroccans worldwide. Under this approach, he said, the country 'strengthens, maintains and energizes unbreakable links between Moroccans of the world and their motherland.'
The ambassador described the structure as serving multiple functions. It will act as 'an administrative relay, a place of listening, and a strong symbol of the link' between Morocco and its citizens. He called it 'an act of confidence toward a remarkable community, an act of faith in a shared future, and renewed proof of the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to their side.'
Morocco's Consul General in Miami, Chafika El Habti, outlined the consulate's modern approach designed with a future-oriented modernization logic. The consular services focus primarily on digitalization and electronic administration.
'This is real added value, because the consular district extends from Florida to California, covering about twenty American states,' she explained. She stressed digitalization's importance for Moroccans residing across these states.
The consul general described Miami's selection as a 'real breakthrough' for the North African country, citing the economic dynamism and cultural openness of this American metropolis. Miami serves as a 'hub for South America and Latin America,' facilitating cooperation between both sides of the Atlantic.
Miami Mayor Francis Suarez also participated in the inauguration, describing the consulate as a bridge connecting Africa, North America, and Latin America – three continents offering enormous economic opportunities.
Suarez observed existing direct flights between Miami and Casablanca and a large Moroccan community in the city. He considered it 'completely natural that, if the northeast United States is covered by a consulate in New York, the south should be covered by Miami.'
The mayor commended the local Moroccan community as 'very proud of these origins while being attached to Miami and seeing many synergies' between their country of origin and their city of residence. He stated confidence their enthusiasm would foster further progress serving both countries.
Hollywood, Florida Mayor Josh Levy celebrated the large Moroccan community in his neighboring city, praising their engagement and entrepreneurial spirit. Levy expressed confidence that the consulate would help develop relationships by multiplying investments and visits.
Boynton Beach Mayor Rebecca Shelton viewed the opening as reflecting Morocco's policy of openness. She noted Miami's concentration of American financial sector activity 'clearly opens the way to greater commercial cooperation.'
Former Broward County Mayor Dale Holness noted the relevance of opening the consulate 'in a region considered the beating heart of Florida's economy, with 22 million inhabitants.' He pointed to Miami's superior port and airport infrastructure, earning it the nickname 'capital of the Americas.'
Moroccans residing in Miami expressed satisfaction about the consulate opening in their region. The area counts thousands of citizens who remain attached to their motherland. They particularly appreciated the digitalization of consular services.
The Miami consulate joins existing Moroccan diplomatic missions, including the embassy in Washington and consulates in New York and Los Angeles. Tags: Moroccan consulateMoroccans in The USMorocco US Relations
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