- Morocco has called for greater solidarity among countries of the Global South in addressing climate change.
- Salma Benaziz highlighted the impact of climate disruption, trade instability, fragile supply chains, and emerging technological challenges on regional stability and security.
Morocco has called for greater solidarity among countries of the Global South in addressing climate change and supporting innovative initiatives. This call was made during the 16th meeting of the Inter-Parliamentary Assembly of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (AIPA), held from July 14 to 17 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
In her address, Salma Benaziz, Chairperson of the Foreign Affairs, National Defence, Islamic Affairs, Migration, and Moroccan Expatriates Committee of the House of Representatives, emphasised that the Kingdom also advocates for stronger cooperation and the exchange of experiences with ASEAN, particularly in the fields of sustainable agriculture, water management, and energy transition.
Climate change is not merely an environmental issue, she said, but also a destabilising factor that exacerbates water scarcity and food insecurity while triggering population displacements. Far from being a matter of choice, climate action is now a necessity for national and regional security, she stressed.
In this regard, Morocco has adopted a comprehensive approach supported by ambitious legislation. The national sustainable development strategy aims to reach 52 per cent renewable energy, she noted, highlighting the impact of climate disruption, trade instability, fragile supply chains, and emerging technological challenges on regional stability and security.
She added that these factors now underpin public policy and are at the heart of global decision-makers’ concerns, underlining the vital role of parliamentarians in addressing these challenges and ensuring development opportunities for the people they represent.
She also addressed the global supply chain issues brought to light by the pandemic and rising geopolitical tensions, calling for new models of economic diplomacy.
She noted that under the enlightened leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, Morocco has positioned itself as a hub of stability and connection between Africa, Europe, and the wider world by diversifying its supply chains and reducing dependence on single markets.
Benaziz also stressed the strategic role of the Tanger Med port as a gateway between ASEAN and Africa, as well as its significance in maritime security and the resilience of international trade.
On the digital revolution, she outlined the opportunities offered by the sector despite cybersecurity threats and risks, emphasising that the governance of artificial intelligence and the reduction of the digital divide require strong legislative systems. She noted that Morocco is currently developing partnerships with ASEAN countries in the fields of e-governance and smart cities, with the goal of supporting the global digital transition.
The 16th meeting of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly brings together a host of parliamentarians, experts, and specialists. The agenda includes several sessions focusing on parliamentary support for global peace, addressing contemporary risks and challenges through parliamentary cooperation, and enhancing the role of parliaments in promoting regional and global peace and security.