Moroccan Parliament becomes “Advanced Partner” of FOPREL

The Forum of Presidents of the Legislative Powers of Central America, the Caribbean, and Mexico (FOPREL) announced on Wednesday in Rabat that the Moroccan Parliament had been promotes from “permanent observer member” within FOPREL, granted in 2014, to “advanced partner”.

The decision, voted unanimously by FOPREL members, was announced at the Forum’s 30th extraordinary session opening, hosted by the Moroccan Parliament under the theme “Facing the common challenges of security, climate change, and economic development.”

A certificate of recognition was presented to Speakers of the House of Representatives and of the House of Councillors, acknowledging the central role played by Morocco in strengthening South-South cooperation, particularly between Africa and Latin America.

Speaking on the occasion, FORPEL Executive Secretary General Ariel Albarado Urbina said that this upgrading of Morocco’s status was the culmination of the Moroccan Parliament’s efforts to bolster cooperation with countries of Central America, the Caribbean and Mexico, propelling progress through several joint projects, which “focus on the challenges we face while aiming to build a shared vision for the future of our countries”.

He added that “advanced partner” status will ensure Moroccan Parliament’s permanent presence in the Forum, underlining the Forum’s commitment to promoting an environment conducive to flexible and balanced co-development, through parliamentary diplomacy.

FOPREL Executive Secretary General also praised the efforts of King Mohammed VI and his leadership “which is the key to Morocco’s growth and prosperity”, stressing that the Kingdom’s hosting of the Forum’s 30th extraordinary session “reflects its commitment to strengthening international parliamentary relations.”

Granting the Moroccan Parliament advanced partner status with FOPREL will reinforce Morocco’s intensive and strong presence in all member countries of this forum, in addition to strengthening its presence in other regional fora in Latin America, such as PARLACEN, the Latin American Parliament (Parlatino) and the Parliament of the Economic Community of South American Countries (Parlasur).

This upgrade is expected to deepen exchanges and joint initiatives, and strengthen both capacities and ties between Morocco and FOPREL member countries.

The Forum’s 30th extraordinary session provides a platform for Morocco and FOPREL nations to promote political dialogue and parliamentary cooperation, and to propose joint initiatives and tackle critical socio-economic and environmental challenges.

The two-day session focuses on four key areas: security challenges in Central America and beyond; parliamentary responses to social and economic impacts of climate change; integrated development strategies; and a regional action plan.

Delegates will also review a framework bill targeting human trafficking, with a focus on protecting women and children.