Aziz Akhannouch, Morocco’s Prime Minister, called for a new era of multilateralism, stressing the need for renewed momentum and reforms within the global community. He made this appeal during his address to world leaders at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, where he reaffirmed Morocco’s strong support for Secretary-General António Guterres’ initiatives aimed at addressing global challenges.
Akhannouch highlighted growing global uncertainty, driven by climate change, governance concerns, and shifting socio-economic landscapes. He noted that the collective security once guaranteed by the United Nations is now under threat, raising doubts about the current state of multilateralism. “Climate change has imposed a new reality,” he said, calling for immediate collective action.
Morocco’s head of government reaffirmed his country’s commitment to a multilateral diplomatic approach, aiming to address both security and development challenges without succumbing to short-term solutions. Akhannouch stressed that revitalising multilateralism requires reform and inclusion, particularly through the active participation of women and youth in shaping responses to modern challenges.
He further emphasised the international community’s responsibility to support African nations, which disproportionately bear the effects of climate change despite contributing minimally to the problem. He also called for innovative financial mechanisms to ease the debt burden on African nations, urging reforms in the global financial architecture to help developing countries secure the funding necessary for economic recovery.
As chair of the Group of Friends of Middle-Income Countries, Akhannouch reiterated Morocco’s commitment to finding solutions to bolster their economies. The Moroccan government is also heavily involved in initiatives like the Atlantic Initiative, aimed at linking Sahel countries—Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, and Chad—with the Atlantic Ocean, fostering peace, development, and security in the region.
Regarding regional conflicts, Akhannouch reaffirmed Morocco’s dedication to peaceful resolutions, particularly in the case of the Moroccan Sahara. He expressed support for the Secretary-General’s efforts to revive political dialogues in line with Security Council resolutions. He also voiced deep concern over the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, particularly in the occupied Palestinian Territory, underscoring the urgent need for a peaceful resolution.
Concluding his speech, Akhannouch called for United Nations reforms, urging the international community to reconsider its operational methods as the organisation approaches its 80th anniversary. His speech at UNGA 2024 marked a significant moment in Morocco’s diplomatic efforts, advocating for renewed multilateralism, climate action, and regional stability in an increasingly uncertain world.
