Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, Morocco’s Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, attended the 45th session of the ministerial conference for the Francophonie Summit on Thursday in Paris, at the International City of the French Language in Villers-Cotterêts, north of Paris.
Delegations from member countries of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) discussed documents presented by the organization’s Secretary General Louise Mushikiwabo, particularly the draft summit declaration, a resolution of crises, and a monitoring mechanism.
Bensaid highlighted that the Villers-Cotterêts declaration calls for “a renewed momentum” in partnership, innovation, and creation within the Francophonie, reflecting both challenges and opportunities. He also noted Morocco’s support for addressing climate and biodiversity financing, stating that “a country should never have to choose between combating poverty and preserving the planet.”
He said that Morocco strongly supports youth, their education, employability, and mobility, reiterating the need for entrepreneurial education in school curricula. Bensaid also called for a responsible digital culture in the Francophone space and suggested hosting an international conference in 2025 focused on protecting young audiences in the digital media environment.
Morocco is committed to transforming the OIF into an economically focused organization, promoting economic integration among Francophone countries, particularly in Africa. It hosted the 4th Francophone Entrepreneurs Meeting in Marrakech in May 2024, which highlighted economic opportunities and connected entrepreneurs.
Regarding the resolution of crises, Bensaid noted that “ongoing multidimensional challenges have heightened divisions within the Francophone community, threatening its core values.” He called for overcoming tensions between neighboring states and fostering inclusive multilateralism and active Francophone solidarity.
Highlighting Africa’s ongoing complex security and socio-economic challenges, he asserted Morocco’s commitment to sustainable resolutions and a collaborative approach to support struggling countries. “Morocco seeks to ensure a prosperous Africa and a stable Sahel through initiatives launched by King Mohammed VI,” he said.
The minister urged the Francophonie to strengthen support for democratic governance and peacebuilding processes in African countries suspended from OIF bodies, with a view to their reintegration.
Regarding the Middle East situation, Bensaid pointed out that “humanitarian crisis management should coincide with establishing a political horizon for lasting peace.” He added that “negotiations must resume to revive the peace process and that stability in the region hinges on a two-state solution, recognizing Gaza as part of an independent Palestinian State.”
He also recalled that, under the directives of King Mohammed VI, as President of the Al Quds Committee, Morocco has opened a new channel for urgent food and medical aid to Gaza.
France, the host of the OIF, will hold the 19th Francophonie Summit for the first time in 33 years at the International City of the French Language, under the theme: “Create, Innovate, and Initiate” in French.