Latest news with #AbdessamadKayouh
Morocco World
15-05-2025
- Automotive
- Morocco World
Morocco Advances AI in Transport with New Research Partnerships
Rabat – Morocco is taking a strategic step toward incorporating AI deeper into its transport systems. On Wednesday, the Ministry of Transport and Logistics signed three tailored agreements with the Foundation for Research, Development and Innovation in Science and Engineering (FRDISI), with the presence of Minister of Transport Abdessamad Kayouh and Royal Advisor André Azoulay. The ceremony, held in Rabat, signaled a clear intent to turn Morocco's transport, airport, and logistics infrastructure into a testing ground for homegrown innovation. These agreements follow a broader framework established in June 2024 between the ministry and FRDISI that reflects a long-term vision to bolster the role of scientific research in vital sectors. Each agreement serves a specific goal. The first, between FRDISI and the National Railway Operator (ONCF), lays the groundwork for integrating AI into the management of intermodal transport. It also includes plans to automate how surface defects are identified on high-speed trains, an effort that could raise safety and efficiency on the country's rail network. The second agreement connects FRDISI with the National Airports Office (ONDA). It centers on enhancing cognitive performance in air traffic operations, a move designed to sharpen vigilance and reinforce safety. The project also includes the development of a real-time mobile application to ease passenger flows inside Moroccan airports. The third partnership, between FRDISI and the National Company of Transport and Logistics (SNTL), introduces machine learning to fleet management. The goal is to improve vehicle maintenance and performance through data-driven insights. Read also: Morocco Revamps Transport Sector with New Safety and Service Quality Standards Kayouh described the initiative as part of Morocco's broader ambition to promote innovation in key economic areas. He also noted that FRDISI, with over 40 inventions to its name, would provide valuable support to national efforts to stay ahead of global developments. He also underlined the importance of empowering Moroccan researchers and engineers to design solutions tailored to the country's needs, rather than relying on imported technologies that may not always fit local realities. For André Azoulay, the moment represents a meaningful change. He called the agreements 'a turning point,' adding that they allow FRDISI's network of top-tier scientists to work directly with public institutions on strategic projects. With its public utility status, FRDISI stands at the crossroads of research, training, and industrial development. It also supports the innovation ecosystem through startup incubation, collaborative projects, and the launch of new small enterprises. This move aligns with Morocco's broader development goals, which place innovation and self-reliance at the core of national progress. As the country prepares to co-host major international events such as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, the integration of advanced technologies into transport and logistics is expected to play a key role in ensuring efficiency, safety, and global readiness.
Morocco World
08-05-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Civil Aviation: Morocco Among Arab Candidates for ICAO Council Seat
Rabat – The Arab Civil Aviation Organization (ACAO) has officially approved a list of Arab countries, including Morocco, to run for seats on the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council. During an extraordinary general assembly held Thursday in Rabat, ACAO member states endorsed candidates from two categories. Alongside Morocco, the list includes Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates. The initiative aims to ensure a stronger Arab voice in the ICAO Council ahead of its 42nd General Assembly, scheduled to take place from September 23 to October 3, 2025 in Montreal. Speaking at the assembly, Morocco's Minister of Transport and Logistics, Abdessamad Kayouh, emphasized the importance of a unified Arab representation that reflects the growing influence and strategic role of the civil aviation sector in Arab economies. 'A strong Arab presence in the ICAO Council will highlight the vital contribution of civil aviation to economic and social development—not only in Arab countries, but globally,' Kayouh said. He also stressed the need for Arab nations to keep pace with rapidly evolving developments in aviation, from legal frameworks to technological innovations. Kayouh expressed optimism that a harmonized Arab vision would help secure broader international support from other regional blocs, thereby increasing the chances of Arab candidates winning a substantial number of votes. The minister also announced that Morocco has completed architectural plans and secured land for the construction of ACAO's new headquarters, reaffirming the country's commitment to enhancing the organization's working environment. A contractor for the project will be selected soon. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of ACAO's Executive Council, noted that discussions during the assembly also tackled pressing issues in civil aviation, including air safety and the integration of modern technologies. He stressed the importance of coordinated Arab efforts in addressing industry challenges and preparing for the ICAO elections. He called for a unified Arab stance within international aviation institutions, underscoring the need for deeper cooperation with other regional blocs to boost mutual support during elections. The ACAO assembly marks a strategic step in aligning Arab countries' policies, strengthening technical and regulatory capacities, and reinforcing their collective presence on the international aviation stage. An agency under the Arab League, ACAO seeks to advance collaboration among Arab nations in civil aviation, while promoting shared policies, developing technological capabilities, and advocating for Arab interests in global aviation governance. Tags: aviation in moroccoICAO councilMorocco
Maroc
06-05-2025
- Business
- Maroc
Morocco Featured as Guest of Honor at 4th Europe-Africa Forum in Marseille
The 4th Europe-Africa Forum kicked off on Tuesday in Marseille, southeastern France, with Morocco as the guest of honor. This business-focused event brings together leaders, investors, and decision-makers from both continents. Morocco is represented at the forum by Minister of Transport and Logistics Abdessamad Kayouh; Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development Leila Benali; Minister Delegate in charge of Investment, Convergence, and the Evaluation of Public Policies Karim Zidane; and the Kingdom's ambassador to France, Samira Sitaïl. The forum, which highlights key challenges and opportunities in Africa-Europe relations, opened with a high-level segment dedicated to Morocco. According to organizers, the event takes place in a shifting global context, where Europe and Africa, working together, form a powerful force capable of shaping the international landscape. Organized by the French economic publication La Tribune and the Aix-Marseille-Provence Metropolis, the one-day forum features thematic roundtables addressing a range of pressing topics, including financing innovation, the role of business and education, and Agenda 2063 as a roadmap for a new era in Europe-Africa cooperation. MAP: 06 mai 2025
Ya Biladi
06-05-2025
- Business
- Ya Biladi
Morocco shines as country of honor at Europe-Africa Forum in Marseille
The fourth edition of the Europe-Africa Forum, a business gathering that brings together leaders, investors, and decision-makers from both continents in Marseille (southeast France), kicked off on Tuesday at the Palais du Pharo in the Phocean city, with Morocco as the country of honor. The kingdom is represented at this conclave, organized by the French economic publication La Tribune and the Aix Marseille Provence Metropolis under the theme «Innovate Together», by the Minister of Transport and Logistics, Abdessamad Kayouh; the Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, Leila Benali; the Minister Delegate in charge of Investment, Convergence, and the Evaluation of Public Policies, Karim Zidane; and the Moroccan Ambassador to France, Samira Sitaïl. Several economic decision-makers and leaders of public enterprises are also participating in this forum, notably the President of the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM), Chakib Alj; the Director General of the Moroccan Agency for Investment and Export Development (AMDIE), Ali Seddiki; the CEO of the Tanger Med group, Mehdi Tazi Riffi; and the Director General of Casablanca Finance City (CFC), Saïd Ibrahimi. «Bound by complementary resources and common interests, the two continents must demonstrate boldness, innovation, and the ability to invent a new model», assert the organizers, stemming from the conviction that «with the Mediterranean as a unifying link and shared wealth, the desire to play a role in the next decade is possible, provided the foundations for equitable cooperation are laid». Throughout the day, participants will discuss topics such as financing innovation, «What cooperation strategy for the Mediterranean?», «Can the Mediterranean port be a model?», «Is Europe-Africa capable of challenging the new world order?», «Co-development, role of businesses and education: what winning triptych for both shores of the Mediterranean?», and «Agenda 2063: a new era for the Europe-Africa bloc?»
Morocco World
01-05-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Morocco Revamps Transport Sector with New Safety and Service Quality Standards
Rabat – Morocco's Minister of Transport and Logistics, Abdessamad Kayouh, recently launched a comprehensive reform plan aimed at modernizing the country's transport sector. The project focuses on improving public safety, upgrading infrastructure, and enhancing service quality across various transport modes. The reform includes the renewal of the intercity bus fleet, professional training for drivers, and support for the rural and tourism transport sectors, as well as the car rental industry. The reforms were presented during a series of steering committee meetings held in Rabat from April 28 to 30, bringing together key stakeholders from public passenger transport, rural mixed transport, tourism transport, and driverless car rental services. Officials from the Ministry and the National Road Safety Agency (NARSA) also participated in the discussions, reflecting a strong push for a coordinated and participatory approach. Central to the new strategy is the 'Safe Autocar' program, which seeks to replace outdated intercity buses with modern, safer vehicles. Backed by an annual budget of MAD 200 million ($19.6 million), the fleet renewal initiative will run from 2024 to 2026, aiming to raise public transport's attractiveness and reliability. The plan also addresses the need to professionalize the transport tourism sector by encouraging structured investment and improving service standards. Additionally, a dedicated vehicle renewal program aims to enhance safety and connectivity for remote communities in rural and mountainous regions. Acknowledging the rapid expansion of Morocco's driverless car rental industry, fueled by tourism and the seasonal return of Moroccans living abroad, Kayouh announced an extension of the transitional period for rental agencies to comply with the new regulatory framework that was implemented in April of 2024. He also asserted his ministry's commitment to digitalizing procedures to build a more efficient, transparent, and sustainable transport system. On Tuesday, Kayouh unveiled a bold MAD 96 billion ($9.6 billion) investment plan to modernize Morocco's railway infrastructure by 2030. The minister detailed that the plan is designed to significantly enhance rail connectivity, improve service quality, and support Morocco's broader goals for sustainable and efficient transport. Tags: Abdessamad Kayouhtransporttransport reformtransport sector
