Morocco’s Ambassador to Washington, Youssef Amrani, participated on Wednesday in a strategic dialogue with permanent observers to the Organization of American States (OAS). The dialogue was part of a special meeting of the Inter-American Council for Integral Development (CIDI).
During the event, Amrani stated that Morocco’s status as a permanent observer to the OAS reflects a deep conviction that “the Atlantic is not a distance that separates us, but a space for partnership and shared opportunities.”
Amrani emphasized that “South-South cooperation must move from dialogue to concrete action,” beginning with “listening to the priorities defined by member states themselves.”
He also noted that development extends beyond financial resources, relying heavily on sharing capacities, experience, and knowledge.
“Knowledge, technology, expertise and, above all, human capital are at the heart of our priorities,” he affirmed during the meeting at OAS headquarters in Washington.
Addressing challenges in food security, water security, and energy transition, Amrani highlighted Morocco’s extensive experience in sustainable agriculture, water management and desalination, and large-scale renewable energy.
He further explained that Morocco’s expertise is bolstered by specialized institutions and recognized research and training centers capable of sharing knowledge and fostering connections among researchers, professionals, and young innovators.
Amrani stressed that development is “above all a human issue,” and that Morocco aims to build cooperation with the OAS focused on training and knowledge sharing.
“Through the Moroccan Agency for International Cooperation (AMCI), Morocco is prepared to expand opportunities for scholarships, technical training and the exchange of experience for young people and professionals from member states,” he announced.
He added that, as part of a pragmatic approach, Morocco has proposed initiating pilot projects in communities particularly affected by water stress, soil degradation, or energy vulnerability, before scaling up successful initiatives.
To ensure continuity and follow-up, Morocco has proposed developing an “OAS-Morocco” Roadmap with clear priorities, concrete projects, and monitoring mechanisms, the ambassador stated.
Amrani concluded by affirming that Morocco seeks to be more than just an observer; it aims to be a genuine partner committed to sharing, learning, and building with the Americas, transforming the shared Atlantic space into one of knowledge, solidarity, innovation, and sustainable prosperity.
