logo
SIAM 2025 : Adoption of the declaration from the 5th AAA Initiative conference

SIAM 2025 : Adoption of the declaration from the 5th AAA Initiative conference

Ya Biladi24-04-2025

The 5th Annual Ministerial Conference of the AAA Initiative (Adaptation of African Agriculture), held Wednesday in Meknes on the sidelines of the International Agricultural Show in Morocco (SIAM) 2025, concluded with the adoption of a declaration by Ministers of Agriculture and representatives of international and regional institutions.
In this context, the officials endorsed a series of commitments, both in response to the outcomes of the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) and in preparation for COP30.
These commitments aim to fulfill climate pledges and ensure equitable access to climate finance, transform agricultural systems toward sustainability and climate resilience, strengthen food security, support the most vulnerable stakeholders, and intensify international cooperation and advocacy.
To that end, they called for reinforcing this dynamic through the development of Climate-Resilient Agricultural Investment Plans, the creation of strategic partnerships to mobilize financing, and stronger advocacy on the international stage—particularly at upcoming Conferences of the Parties and within specialized bodies of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.
In response to the climate emergency, the officials advocated for greater synergy among major regional initiatives, such as the Abidjan Initiative and the three African Climate Commissions born from the 2016 Marrakech Summit: the Congo Basin Commission, the Sahel Region Commission, and the Island States Commission. They emphasized that this complementarity should contribute to a coherent, ambitious, and distinctly African strategy.
They also highlighted Morocco's leadership in South-South cooperation as both an inspiration and a strategic lever for promoting innovative financing solutions tailored to the realities of African agriculture.
In this spirit, the AAA Initiative was called upon to fully assume its role as a catalyst by fostering dialogue between experts and policymakers, and by establishing concrete support and training programs for farmers and producers' organizations.
Finally, the Ministers and representatives reaffirmed their commitment to the objectives of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, pledging to protect Africa's most vulnerable populations and safeguard the planet for future generations.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Morocco-Spain Tunnel: Bridging Continents for Euro-African Integration
Morocco-Spain Tunnel: Bridging Continents for Euro-African Integration

Morocco World

time13 hours ago

  • Morocco World

Morocco-Spain Tunnel: Bridging Continents for Euro-African Integration

A tunnel between worlds In the bustling port of Tangier, ferries cross back and forth, carrying families, tourists, and goods between Morocco and Spain. This route has long been crucial to connecting Africa and Europe. Today, with the proposed building of the Strait of Gibraltar tunnel, a new chapter in this cross-continental relationship is forming. The Strait of Gibraltar tunnel link between Morocco and Spain has once again captured international attention, thanks to recent developments in the two countries. On May 10, Spain allocated €1.6 million to conduct updated feasibility studies for an underwater rail tunnel that would link Punta Paloma in Cadiz to Punta Malabata near Tangier. The project, formally revived in 2023, following a period of uncertainty and disruption since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, has been under discussion since the 1980s. A recent joint statement issued by Spanish Transport Minister Oscar Puente and Moroccan authorities emphasizes the geostrategic importance of this crossing, which is seen to be more than just a physical connection: a bridge between continents, cultures, and economies. Despite its promise, the Morocco-Spain tunnel initiative faces daunting technical challenges. The 42-kilometer rail tunnel would extend as low as 475 meters beneath the sea and have to pass through a seismically sensitive region near the Azores-Gibraltar fault line. Symbolism and soft power To Morocco, the tunnel is more than simple infrastructure. It is a demonstration of soft power and continental leadership. With the only African country to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, (co-hosting alongside Spain and Portugal), Morocco is already making news. While early expectations had hoped to see the tunnel finished in time for the tournament, revised projections now place completion closer to 2040. Still, the political and cultural momentum remains significant. In April, Spain's Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares called for a strengthening of EU-Morocco ties, stressing the importance of bilateral cooperation amid rising global uncertainty. Morocco is not just a neighbor, but a strategic partner for Europe. The Morocco-Spain tunnel project could become a literal and symbolic way to make these ambitions a reality. The cross-cultural initiative Operation Crossing the Strait (OPE), was referenced by Spain's Ministry of Home Affairs as an example of 'good coordination between neighboring countries and of the great preparatory work of our technical teams,' demonstrating how joint infrastructure efforts can be an example of broader diplomatic harmony. OPE is a 'permanent [form of] communication between our respective teams.' Local impact and ferry trade Economically, the tunnel would transform regional logistics. Analysts at CAPMAD observe that the tunnel is part of wider EU-African trade ambitions, particularly the European Green Deal and supply chain expansion into North and West Africa. Morocco, already a key trade partner with Spain and the EU, could further consolidate its role as an African entrance point for goods and labour. This is especially critical considering shipping disruptions and global instability that are pushing European countries to diversify supply routes and expand regional partnerships. The economic stakes are high. Spanish transport officials state that the tunnel will bring a 'quantitative and qualitative acceleration of the [Moroccan] economy' by opening up the movement of goods, services, and people. In May 2025, the launch of new high-speed ferry services between Tarifa and Tangier by Balearia once again highlights this point. As one Balearia spokesperson explained to Morocco World News, 'it's a very important route for our customers, for Moroccans, and for all tourists visiting Morocco, particularly the city of Tangier.' This only adds to the commercial viability of investment in permanent infrastructure, with the Strait of Gibraltar tunnel initiative demonstrating the growing demand for safe and efficient crossings. If ferry traffic is any indicator, demand for connectivity is high. The Gibraltar tunnel would not replace ferries but supplement them, offering a permanent, weather-resistant alternative. A tunnel of dreams and doubts Beyond the geopolitics and financial considerations lies a human story. For thousands of Moroccan families with relatives in Spain, and for students, workers, and tourists traveling between continents, the Strait of Gibraltar tunnel represents something tangible: ease of movement, integration and opportunity. Whether or not this vision is achieved depends not only on engineering calculations, but on sustained political will and inter-regional cooperation. However, not all are as optimistic. There is concern with the environmental implications of drilling through the sensitive seabed of the Strait of Gibraltar, especially in an area so crucial to marine biodiversity and the connecting point between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean . Meanwhile, the Morocco-Spain tunnel has often faced criticism as skeptics point to the decades-long history of missed deadlines and political detours. Although preliminary discussions began in the early 2000s, physical progress has been lacking, with each administration restarting efforts without any concrete goalposts. Technically, the tunnel would surpass even the Eurotunnel (connecting the United Kingdom, France, Belgium and The Netherlands) and Norway's Ryfast in complexity. The seismic hazards in the region make it unlike any existing underwater rail connection, as evaluated in regional infrastructure assessments. A future in the making In many ways, the Morocco-Spain tunnel is more than just an engineering feat; it represents the future of EU-African relations. It challenges the countries involved to contemplate something greater than borders and short-term gains. The tunnel is not simply steel and concrete, but the idea of greater continental solidarity. As plans move forward and studies develop, the question remains: Will the Gibraltar tunnel unite communities and close old gaps, or expose new ones? If completed, the project could stand as one of the 21st century's most powerful symbols of Euro-African unity. For now though, it remains merely a vision. Even if the train takes years to arrive, the journey it promises has already begun. Tags: economyMorocco spainunderwater tunnel

China to eliminate tariffs on African exports, Morocco among beneficiaries
China to eliminate tariffs on African exports, Morocco among beneficiaries

Ya Biladi

time2 days ago

  • Ya Biladi

China to eliminate tariffs on African exports, Morocco among beneficiaries

China has announced plans to eliminate all tariffs on goods from 53 African countries it maintains diplomatic ties with, including Morocco. The move, announced following a meeting between senior Chinese and African officials in Changsha, is part of a broader economic pact aimed at boosting African exports to the Chinese market. The initiative will extend duty-free access beyond least developed countries (LDCs) to include middle-income nations. «It enables middle-income countries like Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt and Morocco... to be able to now enter the Chinese market duty-free» Hannah Ryder, head of the Africa-focused consultancy Development Reimagined, told Reuters on Thursday. The move is expected to boost access for value-added African products to the vast Chinese market. Morocco, with its growing industrial base, particularly in automotive and agri-food sectors, stands to benefit. It is worth noting that Moroccan exports to China reached $1.3 billion in 2024, a figure expected to rise under the new plan. En 2024, les exportations marocaines vers la #Chine se sont élevées à 1,3 milliard de dollars. Avec la nouvelle mesure de zéro #tarif, ce chiffre va continuer d'augmenter. — Ambassade de Chine au Maroc (@ChineAmbMaroc) June 13, 2025 The Chinese foreign ministry also pledged additional support for LDCs to ensure they are not disadvantaged by the new arrangement. The measure could help rebalance trade, which remains skewed in China's favor. Last year, China recorded a $62 billion trade surplus with Africa.

Roundtable in Rabat Celebrates 25 Years of Deepened Sino-Moroccan Relations
Roundtable in Rabat Celebrates 25 Years of Deepened Sino-Moroccan Relations

Morocco World

time2 days ago

  • Morocco World

Roundtable in Rabat Celebrates 25 Years of Deepened Sino-Moroccan Relations

Doha – Morocco and China marked 25 years of deepened bilateral relations during a roundtable discussion held yesterday in Rabat, organized by Dar Attaouhidi and hosted at Librairie les Étoiles. The event brought together key figures, including Chinese Ambassador Li Changlin, Moroccan sinologist Nasser Bouchiba, and Confucius Institute Director Karima El Yatribi, with Med Bachir Znagui moderating the dialogue. The two countries share a robust historical foundation. Morocco became the second African country after Egypt to officially recognize the People's Republic of China on November 1, 1958, just two years after gaining independence from colonial rule. Both countries, having endured colonialism, embrace similar international relations principles centered on multilateralism, non-interference, and respect for territorial integrity. China has emerged as Morocco's third-largest commercial partner and its primary supplier since 2021. This advancement stems from policies initiated after the Cold War and initiatives undertaken during King Mohammed VI's reign over the past quarter century. In 2002, the two countries signed a convention to avoid double taxation, easing cross-border trade and investments. The watershed moment arrived in 2016 with a strategic agreement signed during the King's state visit to Beijing. Morocco and China marked 25 years of deepened bilateral relations during a roundtable discussion held yesterday in Rabat. Ambassador Li Changlin elaborated on recent developments in industrial and political cooperation. He recalled the stop in Casablanca last November by President Xi Jinping, where he met with Crown Prince Moulay Hassan to assess bilateral cooperation and exchange perspectives on human and cultural resources. 'Today, the Chinese and Moroccan people understand each other better than ever, especially regarding their comparative advantages,' Ambassador Li stated during the roundtable. The diplomat observed that while many Moroccan entrepreneurs operate in China, others remain hesitant. To bridge this knowledge gap, the Chinese Embassy plans to organize business visits for Moroccans. 'A vision is worth more than a thousand descriptions. It's up to you to choose your development partners,' he asserted. Regarding tourism promotion, a Chinese restaurant in Tangier will serve as the setting for a reality TV show aimed at boosting Moroccan tourism. Ambassador Li projected that Chinese visitors to Morocco will surpass 200,000 this year. On the trade front, China will implement a zero-percent customs tariff for 53 African countries, including Morocco, allowing Moroccan products duty-free entry into Chinese markets. The ambassador also addressed questions about China's stance on the Western Sahara dispute, revealing he regularly discusses this matter in diplomatic circles but noted the topic rarely surfaces in China. He clarified that the issue should be resolved within the United Nations framework. Li Changlin confirmed that Beijing shares Rabat's approach regarding Gaza and Palestine. Morocco and China marked 25 years of deepened bilateral relations during a roundtable discussion held yesterday in Rabat. A rising axis of trade, culture, and technology Speaking to Morocco World News (MWN) after the event, Nasser Bouchiba stressed the vitality of diplomatic and political connections between Morocco and China, noting exceptional growth in economic exchanges as well. Morocco and China marked 25 years of deepened bilateral relations during a roundtable discussion held yesterday in Rabat. For her part, Karima El Yatribi detailed the role of the Confucius Institute, a partnership between Mohammed V University and Beijing International Studies University. The institute arranges cultural and scientific events for students pursuing Chinese language studies. 'The Prophet, peace be upon him, used to say, 'Seek knowledge, even if it is in China.' Today, China is present here thanks to the language and its openness to teaching it through the Confucius Institute,' El Yatribi told MWN. She described how the institute offers classes for various age groups, from eight-year-old children to adults and middle-aged learners. 'Learning Chinese opens doors to Chinese culture, technology, scientific research, and artificial intelligence,' she added, noting that 'going to China is no longer difficult' as it provides scholarships for dedicated language study. When it comes to international initiatives, Morocco stands as the first African country to join the 'Belt and Road Initiative' launched by China in 2013. This engagement was reinforced by a joint implementation convention signed in 2022. The Mohammed VI Tangier Tech City has evolved into a new hub for Chinese investments in Morocco, hosting several major projects by Chinese industrial groups. Key sectors attracting Chinese investors include the automotive industry, with Chinese companies concentrating on battery production and materials for electric vehicles. Additionally, the energy sector buzzes with activity as Chinese firms engage in both conventional and renewable energy projects. Infrastructure and hydraulics constitute another important area of cooperation. Chinese enterprises have secured strategic contracts for seawater desalination and the extension of the high-speed rail line connecting Kenitra to Marrakech and Agadir. On top of this, a Chinese group is constructing an underground tunnel near Rabat and expanding the capital's airport. Cultural and tourism exchanges have intensified through increased air connections between the two countries. The operation of three Confucius Institutes across Morocco contributes to the spread of Chinese culture and encourages dialogue between the peoples. Morocco and China marked 25 years of deepened bilateral relations during a roundtable discussion held yesterday in Rabat. In his remarks to MWN, Ambassador Li summarized: 'We presented the current state of progress in Sino-Moroccan relations and outlined promising prospects for cooperation in the coming years. It must be noted that over the past two to three years, there has been a dynamic momentum in Sino-Moroccan cooperation.' He concluded that following King Mohammed VI's historic visit, 'a new chapter unfolded in diversifying the partnership between China and Morocco,' pointing to growing Chinese investment flowing into the automotive industry, renewable energy, and textile sector. Read also: Minister Mezzour: China-Morocco Partnership is 'Tangible' in Industry, Trade, Logistics

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store