El valor de un trono estable
The celebration of the Feast of the Throne in Morocco, which coincides with the 22nd anniversary of the arrival of Mohammed VI after the death of his father, Hassan II, represents a demonstration of political and social stability in the Kingdom and of the Moroccan people's affinity with the Alawi monarchy. At the time, at the beginning of the last century, the introduction of this celebration was a milestone in the face of French colonialism. At a time of Islamist offensive to seize power in many countries such as Tunisia, for example, the reaction of its president has been necessary to preserve coexistence, the values of the Constitution agreed upon by all political, economic and social sectors, and to overcome the serious crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic and the disastrous management of the Islamist En-hada government. In Morocco, the cohabitation between the King's power, which controls the so-called Ministries of Sovereignty: Interior, Defence, Foreign Affairs and Islamic Affairs, and the moderate Islamist government of the Justice and Development party has been going well for the past two legislatures, but with many misgivings.
General elections are scheduled for 8 September and we will see whether there will be a change or whether the moderate Islamists will remain in government with the support of the liberal RNI party. During the 22 years of Mohammed VI's reign, Morocco has clearly modernised, with new road infrastructures, a high-speed train, the development of renewable energies with the large photovoltaic plant in Ourzazate, the transformation of Tangier with the two phases of the Tangier Med port, car factories, scientific and aerospace investments, and all with a sustained growth rate of 3.5 per cent on average. Beyond the economic and commercial achievements, where, incidentally, Spain has become the Maghreb country's leading trading partner, what stands out is the real decision to promote women's rights, opportunities for young people and change the production model in the economy with the aim of combating one of Morocco's major problems, the inequality that hampers the daily lives of citizens in many regions of the country.
The coronavirus pandemic has also hit the Moroccan economy following the closure of the country to prevent the spread of contagion. Without tourism for a year and a half, thousands of workers and businesses are without income. Morocco is seeking a solution to the Sahara conflict in the form of broad autonomy under its sovereignty, as recognised by the United States. This is its main objective, but also to rebuild relations with Spain, especially trust. Understanding between two stable kingdoms is essential.
