Centrum Stosunków Międzynarodowych - 20 August 2016: King Mohammed VI Calling for more peace and cooperation

On Saturday, August 20, the Moroccan King delivered a speech to the Nation for the 63rd anniversary of the Revolution of the King and the People. The King touched several topics, in particular, the relations with Algeria and the place of Morocco in Africa, stressing the long-lasting links between Morocco and its neighbors. It is noteworthy that the King Mohammed VI has repeatedly visited various African countries over the past 3 years, concerning new infrastructure and human development projects, business investments, security partnerships, and support for moderate Islamic leadership stands as a counterweight to extremist groups. “For Morocco, Africa means more than just being part of a geographical area, or having historical bonds with the continent” he specified.

Finally, he called for a peaceful Islam, in the context of the recent terrorist attacks in Western Europe, especially referring to Father Jacques Hamel’s murder in Rouen, during Mass at his church. He targeted specifically the Moroccan Diaspora, exhorting them to stay beyond reproach: “I also urge them [the diaspora] to maintain their good reputation, to show forbearance in these trying circumstances, to close ranks and to be, as always, staunch advocates of peace, concord, and co-existence in their country of residence".