UN: Omar Hilale Highlights Morocco’s Contribution to Peacebuilding

UN Secretary-General Reviews Morocco’s Leadership in Peacebuilding

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed Morocco’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Omar Hilale, in New York. The meeting served as an opportunity to assess the activities of Morocco’s presidency of the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) and the progress made in peacebuilding efforts.

An Active Moroccan Presidency in the PBC

During the discussion, Ambassador Hilale presented an overview of the actions taken under Morocco’s PBC presidency. He highlighted concrete results achieved on the ground, particularly in Africa, where the Commission plays a crucial role in supporting countries in post-conflict situations.

The Tangible Impact of Peacebuilding

The Moroccan ambassador emphasized the transformative impact of the Commission in several beneficiary countries, particularly in the Central African Republic, which he knows well from his previous role as chair of its configuration within the PBC. He reaffirmed that sustainable peace cannot be achieved without the active engagement of the United Nations, stressing the importance of continuous and coordinated action.

The Link Between Peace, Development, and Financing

Mr. Hilale also underscored the fundamental connection between peace and development, noting that the two are inseparable. He pointed out the key role of project financing and the contribution of international financial institutions, particularly the World Bank, in facilitating successful crisis exit and stabilization processes. According to him, there can be no development without peace, nor lasting peace without economic and social development.

Strengthening International Partnerships

In this context, the Peacebuilding Commission is expanding its partnerships to enhance its effectiveness on the ground and improve the living conditions of affected populations. The Moroccan ambassador discussed his conversations with the World Bank aimed at mobilizing further support for PBC projects.

Two Major Events Under Moroccan Presidency

Mr. Hilale invited UN Secretary-General Guterres to participate in two high-level events scheduled under Moroccan presidency:

• The PBC’s annual session on June 22, 2026, themed "Partnerships for Peacebuilding," coinciding with the first international week for peacebuilding and the 20th anniversary of the Commission’s establishment.
• A ministerial event taking place alongside the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, presided over by Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita.

António Guterres’ Appreciation

In response, António Guterres praised Morocco’s initiatives and thanked the ambassador for the invitations, deeming these events priorities in the UN agenda. He expressed admiration for Morocco’s commitment to peace, particularly through its presidency of the RCA configuration within the PBC.

A Recognized Role for the PBC in Africa

The Secretary-General highlighted that the Peacebuilding Commission enjoys broad support from member states and is a vital instrument within the UN’s peace architecture. He also acknowledged its tangible impact in Africa, particularly in the areas of development, health, agriculture, and institutional strengthening.

This meeting underscores Morocco’s central role within the United Nations in peacebuilding efforts. It also sheds light on the international recognition of the PBC’s work and its strategic importance for the stability and development of the African continent.