Strengthening African Security Through Visionary Leadership
On Tuesday, Nasser Bourita, Morocco's Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates, presented a forward-looking perspective on King Mohammed VI's vision aimed at tackling the security threats facing Africa while simultaneously fostering the continent's development and prosperity. During the opening session of the fifth high-level meeting of heads of counter-terrorism and security agencies in Africa, held in the coastal city of El Jadida as part of the 'Marrakech Platform' initiative, Bourita addressed the pressing security context currently affecting the continent.
Highlighting several alarming developments, the Minister pointed to the expansion of terrorism and its regional implications, the increase in armed conflicts, and the growing connections between terrorist groups, separatist movements, and transnational crime. Additionally, he underscored the challenges posed by technological advancements and artificial intelligence. To combat these multifaceted threats, Bourita emphasized that the royal vision offers a comprehensive framework tailored to the realities of Africa, asserting that King Mohammed VI's African policy is fundamentally rooted in a principle of belonging. He elaborated that for Morocco, Africa is not merely a neighboring region or another diplomatic option; it is a continent to which Morocco is intrinsically linked on geographical, identity, political, institutional, and historical levels.
Morocco's Role in Enhancing African Stability and Security
Affirming Morocco's commitment to Africa, Bourita articulated that the kingdom's actions align seamlessly with the enlightened vision of the King, founded on a strong conviction that the development, stability, and security of the continent are closely intertwined with Morocco's own progress and security. He stressed that Morocco's engagement in combating terrorism is not just an option but a responsibility of a country dedicated to the safety of its continent. In this context, he also highlighted a principle of African optimism guiding Morocco’s endeavors, noting that despite security challenges, the kingdom views Africa as the continent of the future. While some may focus on difficulties, Morocco sees opportunities and firmly believes that the continent possesses the potential and capabilities necessary to rise to the challenges it faces.
Furthermore, Bourita reiterated the King's advocacy for a comprehensive approach to confronting security challenges, emphasizing that counter-terrorism efforts cannot be solely security-driven but must also encompass religious, economic, and social dimensions. He spotlighted the African unity called for by the King, which is grounded in tangible action, partnerships, and the sharing of expertise. This principle of sharing is a cornerstone of King Mohammed VI's African policy. The Minister also mentioned the significance of royal initiatives benefiting the continent, in particular, the Atlantic African States initiative, which aims to facilitate coastal countries' access to the Atlantic Ocean. He also highlighted Morocco's efforts to enhance resilience against climate change, showcasing a positive approach to the continent's challenges and the opportunities it presents.
In conclusion, Bourita underscored the pivotal role of the Marrakech Platform, which celebrates its fifth anniversary this year, stating that it has become a crucial framework for discussing counter-terrorism issues across Africa. He praised the commitment of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism, viewing it as another dimension of the strong, structured, and future-oriented partnership between Morocco and this UN office. At the end of his remarks, Bourita reiterated that stability is the bedrock for development and democracy, urging the enhancement of African voices in the updating of the UN's counter-terrorism strategy. He asserted that if Africa today represents a focal point for global terrorism, it must also be at the heart of this strategy.
The Marrakech Platform, launched in 2022, brings together heads of counter-terrorism and security agencies in Africa, alongside representatives from partner countries and regional and international organizations, to bolster cooperation and coordination in addressing the continent's security challenges. This meeting continues the momentum of previous sessions held in Marrakech (2022), Tangier (2023), Fez (2024), and Agadir (2025), solidifying the platform's status as a key event for enhancing experience exchange, strengthening regional cooperation, and establishing priorities for capacity building in the realm of counter-terrorism in Africa.
As reported by hespress.com.
