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In a decisive address at the Mediterranean and Gulf Parliamentary Economic Forum in Marrakech, Moroccan Minister Younes Skouri emphasized the critical role of citizen engagement in the success of regional and cross-border economic initiatives. He underscored that parliamentary input is essential in ensuring that government strategies resonate with the aspirations of the people.
The Challenge of Sustainable Development
Skouri articulated that true economic integration must be rooted in the will of the populace, not solely in the agendas of governments or business leaders. He argued for a more inclusive development approach, one that prioritizes human considerations alongside economic factors to foster the sustainability of collaborative projects. The forum’s discussions, which ranged from economic integration to the challenges of public debt and climate change, highlighted the necessity for holistic strategies that address both human needs and economic realities.
Impact of Digital Transformation on Employment
Addressing the pressing issue of digital transformation, Skouri cautioned about the implications of artificial intelligence on the job market. Current statistics indicate a concerning decline of 13 to 22 percent in job opportunities for new graduates globally, driven by the adoption of AI solutions that replace many traditional roles. In light of this, he called for a renewed focus on human capital development within broader economic strategies.
A Human-Centric Approach
Reflecting on initiatives launched over a decade ago by King Mohammed VI, which aimed to regularize the status of over 50,000 migrants from sub-Saharan Africa, Skouri illustrated a proactive vision that places human rights at the center of economic integration efforts. This approach not only addresses humanitarian needs but also elevates the economic prospects for Morocco, positioning it as a stable hub for migration.
Investing in Skill Development
The minister further advocated for investments in skills training and the promotion of circular migration. He noted Morocco’s significant experience in establishing vocational training institutes across several African nations and highlighted new strategic partnerships with Arab countries like Jordan. Such initiatives, according to Skouri, should be integral to shared developmental strategies.
Skouri concluded with a call for parliaments to fully embrace their constitutional roles—through proactive legislation, effective oversight, and rigorous policy evaluations—to bolster performance in investment, employment, training, and infrastructure sectors. This, he asserted, is essential for rebuilding public trust in institutions.
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Moroccan Minister Younes Skouri highlights the importance of citizen engagement in successful economic integration at the Marrakech Parliamentary Forum.
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“At the Marrakech Forum, Minister Younes Skouri advocates for a citizen-driven approach to economic integration, emphasizing the need for human-centric strategies.”
