King Mohammed VI emphasised the importance of Morocco’s Atlantic initiative, which aims to enhance regional integration by providing landlocked Sahel countries with access to the Atlantic and global trade.
This message was conveyed in a speech delivered on behalf of the King at the 15th Summit of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) in Banjul on April 4-5. During his address, the King urged OIC member states to demonstrate solidarity and strengthen cooperation, particularly with the least-developed African nations where instability impedes their social and economic advancement.
He introduced the Africa-Atlantic Initiative as a partnership program focused on bolstering cooperation and integration among African countries bordering the Atlantic Ocean to promote peace, stability, and mutual prosperity in the region. King Mohammed VI also recognized the significance of the planned gas pipeline from Nigeria to Morocco as a project that would boost regional integration and economic development.
Reflecting on the OIC’s establishment in Morocco 55 years ago, the monarch reiterated the organisation’s mission to propagate the tolerant principles of Islam, foster unity among Muslim nations, encourage innovation, and contribute to global peace.
Addressing contemporary challenges such as disruptions in supply chains, the King encouraged Muslim states to facilitate trade by removing barriers.
He cautioned against the dangers of hate speech in fueling instability and violence, condemning recent acts of disrespect towards the Holy Quran. Additionally, he denounced the use of anti-Islam rhetoric in elections and emphasized the implementation of a UN resolution proposed by Morocco in July 2023, which advocates combating hate speech through interreligious and intercultural dialogue.
