Geneva: Morocco has taken an active role in the 72nd session of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Trade and Development Board (TDB), which began with a focus on the outcomes of UNCTAD 16. UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan commenced the session by highlighting the organization’s achievements and plans, setting the stage for future developments in global trade and economic policies.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, the session is particularly significant as it follows the recent adoption of the Geneva Consensus, a pivotal move towards a more equitable and sustainable global economic framework. The TDB, as the governing body of UNCTAD, plays a critical role by convening annually in Geneva to guide and supervise the organization’s initiatives and operations between its quadrennial conferences.

During the general debate, Moroccan Ambassador Zniber expressed strong support for UNCTAD’s efforts to assist developing countries. He lauded the organization’s capabilities in research, analysis, and technical assistance, particularly in areas such as debt management, investment capacity-building, and trade facilitation. Zniber reiterated Morocco’s commitment to the Geneva Consensus, emphasizing two primary areas of focus.

Firstly, he underscored the significance of enhancing South-South trade partnerships to drive regional economic integration. Zniber noted that UNCTAD’s Global System of Trade Preferences (GSTP) could be instrumental in identifying new sectors for inclusion, fostering sustainable trade and development among member states.

Additionally, Zniber highlighted the necessity of bolstering cooperation and regional initiatives among developing countries, especially the least developed countries (LDCs). He pointed out infrastructure as a critical area needing attention. As a part of this effort, he referenced a royal initiative aimed at granting Sahel countries access to the Atlantic Ocean, thereby improving maritime access and promoting security, stability, and prosperity for 23 African nations along the Atlantic coast.

Zniber also extended an invitation to UNCTAD and its African member states to attend the upcoming AfCFTA Business Forum, scheduled for December 11-12 in Marrakech, further demonstrating Morocco’s proactive role in fostering regional economic collaboration.