Casablanca – Morocco and Germany have solidified their cooperation in addressing climate change by signing a significant agreement worth $103 million. The deal, signed in Rabat on Thursday, aims to support Morocco’s Climate Policy Support Program, strengthening the country’s resilience to climate challenges and aiding its transition to a low-carbon economy.

The agreement was signed by Morocco’s Budget Minister, Fouzi Lekjaa, and Jan Schilling, the Regional Head of the Water Sector for North Africa at the German Development Bank (KfW – Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau). During the signing ceremony, both officials highlighted the importance of the collaboration between the two countries, with a specific focus on tackling the pressing issue of climate change.

Lekjaa commended the deepening ties between Morocco and Germany, emphasizing the pivotal role of KfW in supporting Morocco’s climate policies. He stressed that climate resilience has become an essential component of Morocco’s economic and financial strategies, noting that the Kingdom is committed to advancing a green economy and intensifying its climate-related actions in the coming years.

The partnership was also praised by Morocco’s Minister of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, Rural Development, and Water and Forests, Ahmed El Bouari, who referred to the agreement as a reflection of the successful collaboration between the two nations, particularly in the agricultural sector. He also expressed optimism about expanding this cooperation to other areas critical for Morocco’s sustainable development.

In addition, Nizar Baraka, Morocco’s Minister of Equipment and Water, underscored the urgency of combating climate change, particularly in managing the country’s water resources. He highlighted the importance of desalination projects and water conservation efforts as part of the broader strategy to address environmental challenges. Baraka also reiterated Morocco’s commitment to the development of renewable energy solutions, which are becoming an increasingly significant part of the country’s energy mix.

Robert Dölger, the German Ambassador to Morocco, emphasized that the agreement represents a symbol of strong and exemplary cooperation, underpinned by mutual trust and a shared commitment to confronting global climate challenges. He also pointed out the urgency of taking immediate action on climate change, acknowledging that it is a strategic priority for both Morocco and Germany.

Janne Rajpar, the Director of the KfW office in Morocco, affirmed that the fight against climate change remains a central focus of Germany’s cooperation with Morocco. She noted that this collaboration serves as a model for international efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.

The signing ceremony was attended by Zakaria Hachlaf, Secretary General of the Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, who also praised the partnership and its potential to drive significant progress in Morocco’s environmental initiatives.

This agreement marks a major step in enhancing Morocco’s climate resilience and advancing its transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy. Both Morocco and Germany have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening their cooperation and tackling the urgent challenges posed by climate change, with a shared vision for a greener, more sustainable future.