Rabat, December 4, 2024 – His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, presided over a Council of Ministers on Wednesday at the Royal Palace in Rabat, according to a statement from the Spokesperson of the Royal Palace.
The session began with a presentation by Mr. Fouzi Lekjaa, Minister Delegate to the Minister of Economy and Finance in charge of the Budget and Chairman of the 2030 World Cup Committee. Mr. Lekjaa provided an update on Morocco’s extensive preparations for hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup, highlighting key milestones since the Kingdom announced its joint bid with Spain and Portugal in March 2023.
The Minister recounted FIFA’s unanimous selection of the Morocco-Spain-Portugal bid as the sole candidacy on October 4, 2023. He emphasized the collective effort from government departments, public institutions, private companies, and local authorities to submit a robust bid dossier. This hard work earned Morocco’s bid an exceptional score in FIFA’s evaluation report, issued on November 29, 2024, significantly exceeding requirements.
His Majesty the King has directed the formation of an expanded committee, incorporating civil society, Moroccan expatriates, and African talents, to ensure seamless preparations. Key infrastructural priorities include upgrading stadiums, expanding airports, enhancing roads, modernizing telecommunications, and launching integrated urban development programs. Additionally, training programs will be rolled out to build the capacities of young people.
The 2030 World Cup is envisioned not only as a sporting spectacle but also as a transformative opportunity for Morocco’s economy, tourism, and global reputation. It aims to foster peace, unity, and sustainable development.
During the session, the Council of Ministers approved six international conventions, including bilateral agreements on driving license recognition, judicial cooperation, cross-border crime prevention, and military collaboration. Two multilateral conventions addressed aviation-related offences and the establishment of the Digital Cooperation Organization.
His Majesty also announced the appointment of Zouhair Chorfi as Chairman of the National Electricity Regulatory Authority (ANRE). The King instructed a comprehensive reform of ANRE to broaden its scope to regulate the entire energy sector, including natural gas, hydrogen, and renewable energies, ensuring alignment with global best practices.
This Council of Ministers session reinforced Morocco’s strategic vision and its commitment to development, cooperation, and excellence across multiple sectors.
