Rabat, April 29, 2026 – The Europe Today: A high-level conference held in Rabat brought together policymakers, experts, and stakeholders to advance national efforts aimed at preserving marine ecosystems and promoting a sustainable blue economy.
The event was presided over by Zakia Driouch, Secretary of State to the Minister of Agriculture, and organized under the theme “Marine Protected Areas and the Blue Economy: Issues and Challenges.” The conference was held in collaboration with Global Fishing Watch, according to an official statement from the Secretariat of State in charge of Maritime Fisheries.
The gathering brought together representatives from various government institutions, the maritime fisheries sector, as well as experts and researchers, with the aim of raising awareness about the critical role of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in safeguarding marine biodiversity and sustaining fisheries resources.
Participants emphasized that MPAs are essential tools for protecting marine ecosystems while supporting the development of a responsible and sustainable blue economy. The conference also highlighted Morocco’s ongoing commitment to strengthening ocean governance and preserving its maritime resources.
Speakers underscored the important role played by maritime professionals and non-governmental organizations in ensuring the effectiveness of MPAs. The event also served as a platform to discuss key challenges associated with the implementation and management of these protected areas.
In line with these efforts, Morocco established eight new MPAs in 2025 along its Mediterranean and Atlantic coastlines, reinforcing its commitment to conserving marine biodiversity.
The announcement was previously highlighted by Leila Benali, Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, during the 8th edition of the Forum de la Mer in El Jadida. She reaffirmed Morocco’s alignment with the global biodiversity framework, setting an ambitious national target to designate 10 percent of its maritime territory as protected by 2030.
Benali noted that protecting up to 30 percent of marine areas could increase fish biomass by as much as 500 percent, enhancing food security for the fishing industry and generating greater economic value for local communities.
The conference concluded with a shared commitment to advancing sustainable ocean management and strengthening collaborative efforts to protect marine ecosystems for future generations.
