27-03-2025
King Charles III Hosts Morocco's Leila Benali in London
Rabat – United Kingdom's King Charles III welcomed Leila Benali, Morocco's Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, at a high-level meeting in London that focused on water security in the context of climate change and sustainability.
This event highlighted the strong relationship between Morocco and the United Kingdom, with both countries sharing a sharp interest in environmental and climate issues. During her speech, Minister Benali shared Morocco's approach to managing natural resources sustainably under what she described as the visionary leadership of King Mohammed VI.
Benali talked about Morocco's leadership in addressing climate change and achieving Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing the country's focus on environmental sustainability as a key part of its development plan.
She also mentioned that water security is a top priority for Morocco, especially given the country's climate challenges. In particular, the minister highlighted projects like the 'Water Highways' as innovative solutions to water scarcity.
Morocco was the only North African country invited to the meeting, which was organized by the non-governmental group WaterAid, with King Charles III's support. The discussion included ministers and international organizations exploring ways to improve water management and help vulnerable populations deal with the impacts of climate change.
Launched in 2023, the Water Highway is a project that links the Oued Sebou River to link the Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah dam, near Rabat. The ambitious project is one of many undertaken in recent years to tackle water scarcity, with desalination becoming a primary focus of state projects.
Morocco witnessed important rainfalls in recent weeks, which provided a much needed boost to water reserves; however, some dams still remain below capacity. The country has braved six harsh years of drought, which recently led King Mohammed VI to the rare, historic cancelling of Eid Al-Adha sacrifice.
