Morocco's Call for International Solidarity on Climate Challenges
On September 24, 2026, during a high-level meeting in New York dedicated to the existential threats posed by rising sea levels, Morocco urged the international community to adopt a more coherent, solidarity-based, and scientifically grounded approach to address these pressing risks. The appeal was made by Nasser Bourita, Morocco's Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Abroad, who expressed his approval of the meeting's objectives and the adoption of a political declaration addressing the issue of rising sea levels. Bourita emphasized the critical need for this declaration to translate into concrete actions that can mitigate the impacts of this phenomenon.
Bourita noted that rising sea levels are no longer a distant threat; they are already affecting territories, economies, and livelihoods, raising existential questions for certain states. He reminded attendees that under the enlightened leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, Morocco has consistently advocated for climate action that places vulnerability, resilience, and solidarity at the core of international responses to climate change.
In this context, he highlighted Morocco's support for the African Island States Commission, which was initiated during the African Action Summit in 2016, alongside the Atlantic African States Process that emphasizes marine environmental protection and sustainable development. Additionally, he pointed out that since 2019, Morocco has been championing a resolution on integrated coastal zone management at the United Nations General Assembly, and has taken on the role of Champion of the Coalition for Sea Level Rise Threats (C-SET).
Key Actions Proposed by Morocco
In light of the significant threats posed by climate change, Bourita outlined four priority actions that Morocco believes should be prioritized. The first action involves enhancing collective anticipatory capacity by integrating the associated risks into development strategies, adaptation plans, and spatial planning. The second action focuses on mobilizing financing through improved access to predictable resources dedicated to funding adaptation and resilience efforts.
The third action aims at establishing structural partnerships by engaging the United Nations development system alongside international partners to enhance capabilities, expertise, and access to appropriate solutions. Finally, the fourth action emphasizes the necessity of protecting populations by placing them at the heart of international efforts, ensuring the preservation of their livelihoods, cultural heritage, and dignity.
In conclusion, Bourita stressed that the existential risks linked to rising sea levels demand a clear and predictable international framework. He reaffirmed Morocco's commitment to contributing, in line with the Royal Vision, to a multilateral response that is both solidarity-driven and action-oriented to combat this global threat.
As reported by diplomatie.ma.
