Throne Festival in Barcelona: Morocco’s Consul General Highlights Kingdom’s Reforms and the Excellence of Maroco-Spanish Partnership

Celebrating the Throne Day in Barcelona: Moroccan Consul General Highlights Kingdom’s Reforms and Excellence of Moroccan-Spanish Partnership

During the Throne Day celebration held on Thursday evening in Barcelona, Nezha Tahar, the Consul General of Morocco, shed light on the profound transformations the Kingdom has undergone under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. She emphasized the excellence of Moroccan-Spanish relations and the strategic role of the Moroccan community residing in Catalonia.

Addressing a gathering of political, diplomatic, economic, and academic figures, the Moroccan diplomat stated that the Throne Day “transcends mere historical commemoration” to embody “the permanence of the monarchical institution, the continuity of the state, the stability of institutions, and the long-standing pact that unites the Alaouite Throne with the Moroccan people.”

Reflecting on the twenty-seven years of King Mohammed VI’s reign, Nezha Tahar asserted that Morocco has experienced “a profound transformation” driven by “a clear strategic vision and governance based on initiative and rigorous monitoring.” She recalled the Sovereign’s remarks from his National Address, highlighting that the Kingdom’s achievements “are not the result of chance or circumstance,” but the products of a proactive policy that has positioned Morocco as “one of the most solid pillars of stability in the Euro-Mediterranean and African regions.”

The Consul General reviewed the key institutional reforms enacted in recent years, particularly the adoption of the 2011 Constitution, which she presented as a significant milestone in consolidating the rule of law, enhancing freedoms, ensuring judicial independence, promoting good governance, and advancing regionalization. She also highlighted the constitutional recognition of Morocco’s cultural diversity, exemplified by the official status granted to the Amazigh language alongside Arabic.

Economically, Nezha Tahar noted that the Kingdom has established itself as one of Africa’s most dynamic economies through a strategy focused on openness, investment, and industrial diversification. She reminded attendees that Morocco has become Africa’s leading automotive manufacturer, producing over a million vehicles annually, with the automotive and aerospace sectors now representing more than 40% of national exports.

The diplomat also highlighted Morocco’s infrastructure achievements, citing the Tangier Med port, now the largest in the Mediterranean and Africa, the development of high-speed rail networks, and investments made in preparation for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal.

Discussing energy transitions, Nezha Tahar referenced the Kingdom’s ambitions for developing renewable energy and green hydrogen. She particularly praised the launch of the "Morocco Green Hydrogen Offer," aimed at positioning the country among global leaders in this strategic sector.

Beyond economic indicators, the Consul General stressed the social dimension of Morocco’s development model. She mentioned the National Initiative for Human Development (INDH), the expansion of social protection coverage, and reforms aimed at improving citizens’ living conditions. These advances, she pointed out, have enabled Morocco to be classified, according to the 2025 UN Development Program Report, among countries with high human development.

The diplomat also underscored the progress made in promoting women’s rights and ongoing discussions regarding the revision of the Family Code, which she framed as a process reconciling Moroccan societal values, constitutional principles, and Islamic teachings.

On the international stage, Nezha Tahar commended the Kingdom’s growing influence under King Mohammed VI’s guidance. She reiterated Morocco’s commitment to peace, international cooperation, and sustainable development, alongside its advocacy for the Palestinian cause, and its African identity through South-South cooperation and major infrastructural projects like the Africa-Atlantic Pipeline and the Royal Atlantic Initiative.

Regarding the issue of the Moroccan Sahara, the Consul General reaffirmed that the Moroccan autonomy initiative "is the only serious, credible, and realistic basis" for achieving a sustainable political solution under UN auspices. She noted that the opening of 31 consulates in the Southern provinces reflects the international community’s confidence in Morocco’s approach.

Turning to the relations between Rabat and Madrid, Nezha Tahar described the Moroccan-Spanish partnership as “a model of strategic partnership,” built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared vision of the Mediterranean as a space for peace and prosperity. She reminded the audience that Spain remains Morocco’s leading trading partner, with trade volume reaching nearly €22.7 billion in 2024, alongside the presence of over a thousand Spanish companies in Morocco.

She also regarded the joint organization of the 2030 World Cup by Morocco, Spain, and Portugal as a tangible illustration of this exemplary cooperation and an opportunity to reinforce ties between both shores of the Mediterranean. Additionally, she congratulated the Spanish people on their victory in the 2026 World Cup.

Reflecting on Catalonia, Nezha Tahar paid tribute to the Moroccan community, describing it as “a true human bridge between both shores of the Mediterranean.” She praised their integration and contribution to the region’s economic, academic, cultural, and entrepreneurial dynamism, expressing gratitude to the Spanish and Catalan authorities for their cooperation with the Moroccan Consulate, particularly during regularization operations.

In conclusion, the diplomat called for deepening relations between Morocco and Barcelona through enhanced cooperation in economic, academic, cultural, and migratory areas. She advocated for making Barcelona and Moroccan cities “platforms for co-development and innovation,” emphasizing that the Moroccan community is ready to fully play its role as a connector between the two countries.

The ceremony concluded with prayers for His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the Royal Family, and a heartfelt tribute to Moroccan-Spanish friendship.