Morocco and France Reaffirm Forest Cooperation for Climate Resilience
Rabat, The Gulf Observer: Morocco and France have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation in the forest sector, placing sustainability and climate resilience at the core of their bilateral partnership.
The renewed pledge came during high-level talks held in Rabat on Monday between Abderrahim Houmy, Director General of the National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF), and Éléonore Caroit, France’s Minister Delegate for Francophonie and International Partnerships.
Both sides described the engagement as part of a long-standing and strategic relationship built on trust and a shared vision for addressing environmental and development challenges. Officials highlighted over three decades of cooperation in the forestry sector, encompassing biodiversity conservation, reforestation initiatives, protected area management, and strengthening the resilience of forest ecosystems.
The partnership has also focused on adapting forests to climate change and improving the management of urban and peri-urban green spaces. Speaking to the media, Houmy termed the collaboration “exceptional and strategic,” noting tangible progress in reforestation programs, watershed management, and forest fire prevention.
Caroit emphasized that her visit aimed to reinforce partnerships that have a direct impact on communities, particularly in mitigating forest fires and advancing reforestation efforts. She underlined the importance of balancing economic development with climate action through such cooperation.
On the sidelines of the meeting, the French delegation visited Morocco’s Forest Fire Management Center, where they were briefed on advanced monitoring and prevention systems. Caroit praised Morocco’s approach, highlighting the use of cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence and drones, as “remarkable.”
Both sides also underscored the significance of the “Ghabati Hayati – My Forest My Life” program, supported by the French Development Agency with funding of €103 million. The initiative contributes to the implementation of Morocco’s “Forests of Morocco 2020–2030” strategy, aiming to modernize forest governance and promote a low-carbon, inclusive economy.
Cooperation is further being strengthened through a European Union-backed twinning project led by ANEF, bringing together partners from France, Spain, Italy, and Sweden to develop innovative and locally adapted solutions.
Looking ahead, both countries agreed to enhance technical exchanges and expand sectoral collaboration. They also reaffirmed their shared ambition to promote South-South cooperation, particularly across Africa, by sharing expertise and best practices in sustainable resource management.
A high-level visit by Moroccan forestry officials to France is scheduled for June, aimed at further consolidating institutional ties and exploring new avenues for cooperation in addressing environmental and climate challenges.
