Laayoune: The President of the Andean Parliament, Gustavo Pacheco Villar, has expressed admiration for Morocco’s socio-economic development momentum, particularly in its southern provinces, under the leadership of HM King Mohammed VI. This statement was made during his visit to Laayoune, where he met with key regional leaders.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, Pacheco Villar, who is leading a high-level parliamentary delegation on a working visit to Morocco, emphasized the country’s role as a continental development model. After discussions with the Wali of the Laayoune-Sakia El Hamra region and other local officials, Pacheco Villar highlighted Morocco’s significance as a strategic partner for African nations.

The visit, made at the invitation of Morocco’s House of Councilors, focused on reinforcing bilateral cooperation in social, economic, diplomatic, and cultural fields. Pacheco Villar underscored Morocco’s strategic location and economic potential, which position it as a gateway for Latin American countries to Africa and Europe.

On the topic of the Moroccan Sahara, Pacheco Villar reaffirmed the Andean Parliament’s respect for Morocco’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He also advocated for establishing free trade agreements between Morocco and member states of the Andean Parliament to enhance economic links.

In the academic realm, Pacheco Villar announced the introduction of scholarships in collaboration with the Andean University Network. These scholarships aim to support Latin American students pursuing higher education in Morocco.

During the visit, the delegation attended a presentation on Laayoune’s development strategy, aligning with the Development Model for the Southern Provinces initiated by HM King Mohammed VI in 2015. A joint declaration was signed to bolster South-South parliamentary cooperation, reflecting the historical and economic ties between Morocco and the Andean region.

The delegation also toured several development projects to observe Morocco’s efforts in achieving sustainable growth in the southern provinces. As an observer member, Morocco plays a crucial role in legislative cooperation with the Andean Parliament, which includes Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Chile.

Established in 1979, the Andean Parliament aims to harmonize legislation, promote regional integration, and enhance participatory democracy among its member states.