Rabat – Morocco renewed on Monday its strong commitment to global efforts to protect the ocean during the COP30 climate conference held in Belém, Brazil. The country emphasized that its actions align with the forward-looking vision of King Mohammed VI, who has long highlighted the importance of sustainable and inclusive ocean governance.
Speaking at a side event titled “From Nice to Belém… and from Belém to New York: Towards COP1 for the Ocean” at the French Pavilion, Bouzkri Razi, Director of Climate and Biodiversity at the Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, underlined Morocco’s active engagement in the global fight against climate collapse.
The country’s 3,500-km coastline and its recognized environmental leadership make it a key voice in shaping Africa’s maritime future, he noted.
Razi explained that protecting marine ecosystems has become essential as the international community prepares for the first-ever COP on the ocean (COP1). He called for stronger scientific knowledge, especially concerning deep-sea exploration and understanding ocean biodiversity.
Morocco has been driving this agenda since the Africa for the Ocean Summit held in Nice, where King Mohammed VI sent a message outlining a strategic vision for Africa’s maritime future, Razi recalled.
Delivered by Princess Lalla Hasnaa, the message described the ocean as more than an environmental asset, but also a vital resource for food security, climate resilience, energy, and regional integration. The King also called for a “blue revolution” based on blue growth, South-South cooperation, and the strengthening of Atlantic dynamics.
Razi explained that this vision fully aligns with the “Nice to Belém” roadmap, signed by the presidents of France and Brazil in November 2024. The roadmap guides the preparations for the upcoming UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3) and the future COP1 for the ocean.
Rabat’s effective framework for improving resource efficiency
Morocco, he said, participated in UNOC3 with a responsible and ambitious approach, promoting strong protection for the marine environment and the development of a sustainable blue economy. The country aims to build a blue economy that fits with the 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goal 14, while also complementing green economic initiatives.
Razi mentioned Morocco’s “Blue Belt Initiative,” saying it has become a practical framework for improving resource efficiency, combating pollution, promoting circular economy practices, and strengthening climate resilience in coastal areas.
He also reviewed the country’s legal and institutional progress, including Law 81-12 on the coastal zone, the National Coastal Plan adopted in 2022, and regional coastal plans. In addition, Morocco has launched major projects with support from the Global Environment Facility, the World Bank, and several international partners, including the “Coast Without Plastic” strategy aimed at reducing pollution and encouraging circularity.
Razi added that Morocco’s commitment to the oceans is closely linked to its just energy transition. He pointed to the Africa-Atlantic gas pipeline as a strategic project aimed at improving access to clean and reliable energy, supporting energy transitions across several African countries, boosting regional integration, and reducing emissions by using cleaner energy sources.
This large-scale project, he noted, will help expand energy access in West Africa, support low-carbon industrial activities, create jobs, and even strengthen Europe’s energy security by supplying it with natural gas.
Razi concluded by saying that this integrated approach that combines ocean protection, energy transition, and regional solidarity reflects Morocco’s long-term vision inspired by King Mohammed VI and confirms the country’s role as a committed and forward-thinking actor in global ocean governance.
MWN with MAP
