In a speech delivered on his behalf at the opening of the 3rd edition of the Morocco-Pacific Island States Forum (Laayoune 26-28 February), by Mr. Mohcine Jazouli, minister delegate to the minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Mr. Bourita recalled that "the commitment of the Kingdom of Morocco stems from the unique importance given by His Majesty King Mohammed VI to South-South cooperation".

“This cooperation is and always has been a cornerstone for the Kingdom's foreign policy, and a firm external choice, constantly aimed at strengthening relations with the friendly countries in the southern hemisphere and resolutely launching creative initiatives to promote mutual solidarity,” he stressed.

“In parallel with its involvement in the consolidation of this option within the areas of its geographical and cultural affiliation, namely in Africa and the Arab world, the Kingdom of Morocco has put special care into diversifying and consolidating relations with the South countries, in particular the Small Island Developing States, which maintain effective cooperation and solidarity with Morocco at bilateral as well as multilateral levels,” Mr. Bourita underlined.

He added that while the first and second sessions of this forum, in 2012 and 2015, “have enabled us to lay the foundations of our partnership, our meeting today offers a chance to assess achievements and to renew the resolve to raise the level of cooperation”.