The Secretary-General of UN Tourism, Zurab Pololikashvili, met with Nasser Bourita, Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates, in Rabat on Monday, January 27.
The meeting marked the start of the Secretary-General’s two-day working visit to Morocco, during which he will also participate in the Conference on Technological Innovation and Tourism Investment.
During the meeting, Minister Bourita emphasized the strategic partnership between Morocco and UN Tourism, grounded in shared priorities and a common vision for the future of global tourism. He highlighted the Kingdom’s leadership in promoting sustainable tourism on a global scale, aligned with the vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, which positions the tourism sector as a lever for sustainable development and economic growth.
On the opening of a UN Tourism Thematic Office in Morocco, Mr. Bourita welcomed the decision, explaining that the office will act as a platform for collaboration between Morocco, UN Tourism, and member countries. This initiative aligns with Morocco’s approach to fostering active and pragmatic South-South cooperation, as envisioned by His Majesty King Mohammed VI.
The Minister also highlighted Morocco’s significant projects in tourism, including the organization of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup. He noted that these events provide opportunities to showcase Morocco’s tourism potential while adhering to international standards for sustainable tourism.
Mr. Bourita further underlined the importance of sports tourism as a pillar of Morocco’s development strategy, contributing to peace, stability, and cultural exchange.
In response, Secretary-General Pololikashvili commended the vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, particularly in job creation and the advancement of sustainable tourism. He also praised Morocco’s readiness to host global and regional sporting events, such as the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup, emphasizing how these initiatives reinforce the Kingdom’s position as a hub for international sporting events.
The Secretary-General reaffirmed UN Tourism’s commitment to supporting Morocco through the provision of expertise and technical assistance to ensure the success of these major projects.
Morocco has been a UN Tourism member since 1975 and is actively engaged in the organization’s activities. The country currently holds a seat on the UN Tourism Executive Council.
This visit further cements the collaboration between Morocco and UN Tourism, underscoring the Kingdom’s commitment to advancing sustainable tourism development.
