Throughout this year, these commemorations have served as an occasion to highlight Interpol’s distinctive position as the sole organization equipped with both the mandate and technical infrastructure to facilitate the global sharing of police information. It underscores its pivotal role in the broader international security framework.

Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi, the President of Interpol, emphasized the organization’s numerous accomplishments during the opening ceremony, citing numerous operations resulting in the apprehension of criminals, rescue of children, and confiscation of weapons, drugs, and illicit goods since its inception.

Expressing pride in these achievements, he emphasized the collective responsibility to ensure that no country or region is left behind in the ongoing battle against crime.

Austrian Federal Chancellor Karl Nehammer, speaking on the organization’s centenary, highlighted the opportunity to embark on a new chapter in the fight against international organized crime. He noted the significant progress made since Interpol’s establishment in 1923 when it began with 20 countries and has now evolved into a global force.

Interpol Secretary General Jürgen Stock underscored the organization’s commitment to leveraging a century of experience to equip member countries to confront the evolving challenges in police action over the next 100 years and beyond. In an editorial, he emphasized the need for a global response to the security crisis posed by transnational organized crime.

The foundation of the International Criminal Police Commission, later named INTERPOL, took place in 1923 during a police congress in Vienna, Austria, bringing together representatives from 20 countries. Established in a post-war context of geopolitical upheaval and concerns about rising international crime, the congress affirmed that collaboration was essential for police to combat transnational crime threats. Convened by police officials, the Vienna Congress established the foundational principles guiding INTERPOL’s work today: a focus on practical tools for cross-border law enforcement and a commitment to neutrality, principles that persist through periods of political or economic tension.

Read Also: Hammouchi Meets Austrian Intelligence Head in Vienna Talks

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During the 15th annual retreat of the AU PSC in Tunis, which concluded on Monday, the Moroccan delegation, led by Ambassador Mohammed Arrouchi, stressed the imperative of strict adherence to PSC decisions and existing rules and procedures. Specifically, the delegation emphasized the importance of following guidelines related to early warning, mediation, and preventive diplomacy to mitigate the risk of conflict and violence across the continent.

In the inaugural ceremony of this annual retreat on Saturday, the Moroccan delegation underscored the paramount role of the UN Security Council and advocated for a comprehensive, multidimensional approach.

The delegation reiterated the prominence of the UN Security Council as the primary body responsible for matters related to international security. This principle was unanimously reaffirmed in the draft resolution discussing the financing of peacekeeping operations, a topic explored during the retreat and scheduled for review by the UN Security Council in New York next week.

Additionally, the Moroccan delegation emphasized the necessity of adopting global and multidimensional strategies. These strategies aim to enhance coherence between political, security, and development activities in managing crisis and conflict situations on the continent. The objective is to effectively address the root causes of insecurity and instability, encompassing socio-economic challenges and the essential needs of African populations.

Beyond scrutinizing the PSC’s working methods, the annual retreat delved into examining reference documents to contribute to the enhancement of the council’s operations. This included a focus on the AU sanctions regime against unconstitutional changes of government, the PSC’s engagement mechanism with African members of the UN Security Council (A3), and the AU Committee on Counter-terrorism.

Read Also: EBRD Boosts Moroccan Women-Led MSMEs with €20 Million Loan

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In a move to boost women’s entrepreneurship and business involvement, a project spearheaded by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is set to enhance financial access and guidance for women. The project, highlighted in an EBRD press release, specifically aims to support women-led Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in regions impacted by the September 8, 2023 earthquake.

The financial injection comes in the form of a loan, accompanied by a technical cooperation program funded by the European Union (EU). This program will offer vital support to BMCI, including staff training, internal capacity-building, and skill development. The objective is to ensure a more nuanced understanding of and service to the financial needs of women-led MSMEs.

Additionally, there will be capacity-building and advisory services directly provided to women-led MSMEs to bolster their knowledge and entrepreneurial skills. These initiatives, funded by the EU and EBRD, include non-technical cooperation grants designed as gender-intelligent financial incentives for eligible digitalization investments by women-led MSMEs. The first loss risk cover for areas affected by the September 8 earthquake is funded by EBRD’s Shareholder Special Fund.

This marks the fifth partnership between BMCI and EBRD. The collaboration aims to fortify BMCI’s business model, digital transformation, and practices for more effective collaboration with women-led MSMEs.

As part of EBRD’s response to the Al Haouz earthquake, the Shareholder Special Fund (SSF) will finance first loss risk dedicated to women-run MSMEs in affected regions. This operation is a part of a broader intervention package worth €250 million, running from 2023 to 2025, to rebuild Morocco’s economy in earthquake-affected regions.

This strategic operation enables the bank to swiftly address the consequences of the earthquake while remaining committed to its primary objective of promoting female entrepreneurship in Morocco, as explained by EBRD.

Morocco, a founding member of EBRD since 2012, has been a beneficiary of the bank’s resources. To date, EBRD has invested a substantial €4.3 billion in the country through 96 projects. This ongoing collaboration exemplifies Morocco’s dedication to leveraging international partnerships for sustainable economic growth.

Read Also: Moroccans Rally in Massive Pro-Palestinian Demonstration

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The meeting occurred concurrently with Hammouchi, the Director General of National Security and Territorial Surveillance’s participation in the 91st session of the International Criminal Police Organization, Interpol, held in Vienna from November 28 to December 1.

During the meeting between Hammouchi and his Austrian counterpart, the primary focus was on enhancing cooperation across all security domains between the Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of Austria. Discussions also revolved around the development of collaborative mechanisms to address diverse security challenges and threats.

In attendance were executives and officials from the Directorate General of National Security (DGSN) and the Directorate General of Territorial Surveillance (DGST), along with representatives from the State Protection and Intelligence Directorate of the Republic of Austria.

This diplomatic visit aligns with Morocco’s dedication to fortifying international security cooperation. It underscores the Kingdom’s readiness to exchange its experience and expertise in counterterrorism and combating organized crime with the security services of friendly and brotherly nations, as well as with all international partners.

Read Also:Morocco’s Maritime Diplomacy Shines in London Summit

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A prestigious Moroccan delegation, led by Mohamed Abdeljalil from the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, is currently representing the country at the 33rd session of the Assembly of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a United Nations specialized agency dedicated to maritime safety, security, and pollution prevention.

The assembly, held every two years, is a significant event where Morocco aims to advocate for its candidacy to the IMO Council for the term 2024-2025. This endeavor is part of Morocco’s commitment to contributing actively to the IMO’s mission, having been a member since 1962.

Given Morocco’s strategic maritime position along the Mediterranean and Atlantic, boasting a coastline of over 3,500 kilometers, the country plays a crucial role in the IMO’s global representation. The current session is particularly pivotal for Morocco as it seeks re-election to the IMO Council, alongside nations such as Saudi Arabia, Belgium, Egypt, and Qatar.

The IMO Council, responsible for ensuring diverse global representation, holds a vital role in the organization’s core missions, including addressing specific interests in maritime transport, ensuring worldwide geographical representation, and approving measures for new organizational observers.

The ongoing assembly is poised to make important decisions, including the adoption of the Organization’s Strategic Plan for 2024-2029 and the approval of the budget and work program for 2024-2025. Additionally, the assembly will decide on the appointment of Arsenio Antonio Dominguez Velasco from the Republic of Panama as the IMO Secretary-General, succeeding South Korean Kitack Lim.

This diplomatic effort follows King Muhammad VI’s recent emphasis on the Atlantic dimension of the country during his address on the occasion of the 48th anniversary of the Green March. As Morocco engages in bilateral meetings and strategic discussions at the IMO assembly, the outcomes will shape the nation’s maritime trajectory on the global stage.

Read Also: IRES Head Highlights Morocco’s Mediterranean Energy Impact

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Tens of thousands of Moroccans gathered in Casablanca on Sunday to demand a lasting cease-fire in Gaza and the suspension of diplomatic relations with Israel. Despite the once-growing ties between Morocco and Israel since their normalization in 2020 under the Abraham Accords, the recent Palestinian conflict  has strained their relationship.

The demonstration in Casablanca saw participants waving Palestinian flags and urging Rabat to sever ties with Israel. Socialist MP Nabila Mounib emphasized the need for a permanent cease-fire, advocating for peace and the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state with its capital in Jerusalem.

Hassan Bahadou, representing the anti-normalization alliance of leftist parties and Islamists that organized the protest, condemned what he described as the silence of Arab regimes allied with Israel.

While pro-Palestinian demonstrations had been on the decline in Morocco in recent years, the Gaza war has sparked a resurgence in activism. Moroccan cardiologist Safae Abderazzak participated in the protest to denounce Israeli aggression against Palestinians and fellow doctors in Gaza.

The four-day truce that began on Friday marked a temporary halt to the conflict between Hamas and Israel, triggered by an unprecedented attack by Hamas on October 7. The conflict resulted in casualties on both sides, with Hamas raids into southern Israel killing at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli officials. Israel, in reprisal, bombarded the densely populated Gaza Strip, resulting in a significant number of casualties.

As part of the truce, Hamas released 39 Israelis and 19 foreign and dual-national hostages on Friday, in exchange for the liberation of 117 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails. The situation remains complex, with ongoing concerns about the prospects for lasting peace in the region.

Read Also: Hamas Ceasefire Success: 24 Hostages Freed on Day One in Gaza

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Morocco’s Princess Lalla Meryem took center stage on Saturday as she presided over the grand inauguration of the Diplomatic Circle Charity Bazaar at the National Library in Rabat. In a symbolic gesture, Princess Lalla Meryem cut the ribbon, officially opening the charitable bazaar, according to a press release from the Morocco news agency (MAP).

During her visit, the princess explored diverse stands featuring artisanal and local products, each representing countries from various continents. Following the ceremony, Princess Lalla Meryem graciously posed for a commemorative photo alongside members of the Diplomatic Circle.

The royal presence extended to meetings with key government officials, including Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, Minister of Solidarity, Social Integration and Family, Aawatif Hayar, and the Wali of the Rabat-Sale-Kenitra region, Mohamed Yacoubi.

Now in its fourth decade, the Diplomatic Circle’s Charity Bazaar has become an integral part of Rabat’s social fabric, embodying a “celebration of friendship and solidarity.” Thousands of participants contribute to the bazaar’s charitable goals, creating a unique atmosphere of benevolence, as highlighted in the statement.

As the flagship initiative of the Diplomatic Circle, the Bazaar brings together spouses of diplomatic heads and representatives from international organizations. This dynamic network of women diplomats actively engages in supporting the most vulnerable, promoting fraternity, and fostering generosity.

This year’s edition featured representatives from around thirty countries and international organizations, showcasing a diverse array of products from Africa, America, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, all available for purchase at various stands.

Crucially, a substantial portion of this year’s funds will be directed toward assisting the victims of the Al Haouz earthquake that struck central Morocco on September 8, adding a meaningful humanitarian dimension to the event.

Read Also: IRES Head Highlights Morocco’s Mediterranean Energy Impact

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Morocco’s thrilling run at the FIFA U17 World Cup concluded today, as the Atlas Lions faced a 1-0 defeat against Mali in the quarter-final showdown at Manahan Stadium in Indonesia.

Despite a valiant effort from the Atlas Lions, Mali’s U17 team set the tone early in the game. Despite fierce resistance, the Eagles managed to breach Morocco’s defenses, with Ibrahim Diarra securing the decisive goal in the 81st minute.

The journey for Morocco’s U17 team began with remarkable momentum this year. Just days ago, they clinched a nail-biting victory over Iran in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw in full-time.

This marks Morocco’s highest finish in the history of the tournament, surpassing their previous round of 16 exit in the 2013 edition, where they were defeated by Cote d’Ivoire 1-2.

The Atlas Lions navigated the group stage with two victories and one loss. They kicked off with a convincing 2-0 win over Panama in the opening match, suffered a setback with a 0-2 loss to Ecuador, and roared back to secure a 3-1 triumph against the host country, Indonesia.

Finishing first in Group A with six points, Morocco’s U17 team secured their spot in the knockout stage, marking a commendable achievement in their FIFA U17 World Cup journey.

Read Also: IRES Head Highlights Morocco’s Mediterranean Energy Impact

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In a noteworthy address on Thursday, Managing Director of the Royal Institute of Strategic Studies (IRES), Mohammed Tawfik Mouline, shed light on Morocco’s pivotal role in advancing energy sovereignty within the Mediterranean region.

Mr. Mouline delivered these insights during his participation in the 4th international conference “ÁFRICA XXI,” a collaborative effort by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation (FNF) and the Institute for Promotion of Latin America and the Caribbean (IPDAL). He underscored Morocco’s dedicated efforts in the field of energy cooperation in the Mediterranean, particularly emphasizing the strategic responses formulated in the aftermath of the war in Ukraine.

Reflecting on the energy landscape in the Mediterranean basin and the enduring challenges it faces, the IRES Managing Director advocated for intensified cooperation in the region.

Despite contributing less than 6% to global oil and gas production, the Mediterranean serves as a crucial transit zone for international hydrocarbon trade. Mouline highlighted the significance of the Strait of Gibraltar, a major maritime route accounting for over a third of global hydrocarbon traffic.

Addressing current electricity interconnections, Mouline highlighted existing links between Morocco and Spain, totaling 1,400 MW, and outlined plans for additional connections, including those involving Portugal.

Mouline urged for the establishment of a Mediterranean energy pact to address emerging challenges. Citing the energy shock post the Ukrainian conflict, he called upon Mediterranean countries to reevaluate energy security and sovereignty. He proposed the development of a shared energy vision, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050 across the entire Mediterranean basin. Emphasizing the importance of collaboration, Mouline advocated for a cooperative framework that encourages dialogue and consensus among Mediterranean countries.

In conclusion, Mouline’s insights provided a compelling argument for a renewed focus on energy security, sustainability, and collaboration within the Mediterranean. This year’s edition of the conference gathered ambassadors accredited to Portugal, senior representatives of the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, international organizations, and experts from African and European Think Tanks and universities.

Read Also: Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Chairs Inauguration of New Members of Kingdom of Morocco Academy

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In Gaza on Friday, the initial group of hostages was liberated, marking a day of heightened tensions. Despite relief, concerns about the future lingered, following weeks of unyielding violence in the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Hamas released a total of 24 hostages as part of a deal facilitating a temporary cessation of hostilities. The liberated individuals comprised 13 Israelis, 10 Thais, and a Philippine national. This agreement also encompasses the release of Palestinians detained by Israel.

Across Israel, there were jubilant celebrations, while Gaza experienced a day of relative calm after enduring significant casualties. Despite the optimism for a more enduring ceasefire, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed his commitment to continue Israel’s campaign to dismantle Hamas.

The 13 Israelis, including very young children, who were held hostage by Hamas have safely returned to Israel. Recognition from friends and neighbors from their kibbutz communities marked their arrival. The release occurred on the first day of a four-day ceasefire, bringing relief to families in Israel and the 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza who have endured intensive Israeli bombardment.

In addition to the Israeli hostages, 39 Palestinian prisoners, including 24 women and 15 teenagers, were released by Israel. Some of the released Palestinians had not seen their families for many years.

The four-day ceasefire, the first break in seven weeks of conflict in Gaza, offers hope for a more lasting pause in the violence. As part of the agreement, Hamas is set to release at least 50 of the approximately 240 hostages it has held since launching attacks in October. In return, Israel will release at least 150 Palestinian prisoners and allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the return of the hostages but emphasized the commitment to securing the release of all hostages as one of the war’s aims.

The Israeli offensive on Gaza has resulted in a significant death toll, with more than 14,000 people, including thousands of children, according to Palestinian officials. The ceasefire, while initially showing signs of fragility, has brought relative calm to much of Gaza.

In a surprising development, the Thai prime minister announced the release of Thai hostages, believed to be farm workers employed in communities around Gaza. The hostages were transferred out of Gaza and handed over to Egyptian authorities at the Rafah border crossing, accompanied by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

“The deep pain experienced by family members separated from their loved ones is indescribable. Fabrizio Carboni, the ICRC’s regional director for the Near and Middle East, expressed relief at the reunification of some hostages after prolonged agony. The Israeli military conducted an initial medical assessment on the hostages within Israeli territory. Subsequently, they were flown to medical facilities across Israel for reunification with their families. Families and supporters in Tel Aviv celebrated the return.

The families’ vocal campaign played a significant role in pressuring Prime Minister Netanyahu to agree to a deal with Hamas, an organization he has vowed to ‘crush.’ Ziv Agmon, a legal adviser to Netanyahu’s office, expressed hope for a positive outcome and assured that Israel would follow the agreement.

Hamas’s main political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, affirmed the group’s commitment to the truce and hostage swap, contingent on Israel’s commitment. In the occupied West Bank, families eagerly awaited news of the prisoners to be released. Israeli security forces used tear gas on crowds outside Ofer Prison, where the freed prisoners were expected.

Originally scheduled for Thursday afternoon, the exchange was delayed due to last-minute logistical issues resolved during 24 hours of frantic diplomacy. The agreement includes restrictions on Israeli military flights over Gaza, and Israel has committed not to arrest anyone in Gaza during the truce, according to Hamas. If the initial exchanges go well, there may be further releases on both sides, and some sources suggest the ceasefire could last up to 10 days.”

Aid trucks from Egypt began entering the Gaza Strip approximately 90 minutes after the ceasefire commenced at 5 am local time. However, humanitarian officials noted that the aid provided was only a fraction of what was needed, and concerns were raised about the almost total blockade of Gaza by Israel leading to severe shortages of essentials and “catastrophic” conditions.

Medical facilities in Gaza have been extensively damaged, and doctors are struggling to treat a high number of seriously injured casualties with inadequate supplies. The ceasefire, mediated by Qatar, the US, and Egypt, was reached after lengthy and complex talks, coming more than six weeks after the conflict began.

Swaths of northern Gaza have been destroyed, displacing up to 1 million people. Israel claims to have killed thousands of Hamas fighters, although evidence for this count has not been presented. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) cautioned Gaza residents that the humanitarian pause is temporary, emphasizing the northern Gaza Strip as a dangerous war zone.

Despite warnings, some Palestinians in southern Gaza attempted to return to their homes in the north at the start of the ceasefire, facing obstacles from Israeli troops. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant described the ceasefire as a short respite, anticipating intense fighting to continue after its conclusion. He mentioned the expectation of at least another two months of fighting.

On Israel’s northern border with Lebanon, there was calm, a day after Hezbollah, an ally of Hamas, carried out the highest number of attacks in one day since fighting began on October 8. While Hezbollah is not a party to the ceasefire agreement, it was widely expected to halt its attacks.

Read Also: Gaza Truce: Morocco Supports and Calls for Palestinian State

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