Mrs. Driouch Holds Talks with the Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO

Zakia Driouch, Secretary of State in charge of Fisheries, held talks today, Friday in Nice, with Vidar Helgesen, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, on the sidelines of the Third United Nations Ocean Conference.

During this meeting, both parties discussed a number of issues of mutual interest, including the strengthening of scientific cooperation in the field of sustainable fishing, monitoring of marine ecosystems, combating marine pollution, marine spatial planning, and the adaptation of coastal communities to the impacts of climate change.

On this occasion, Ms. Driouch highlighted Morocco’s efforts to promote responsible fishing practices, establish marine protected areas, develop scientific research programs in ocean sciences, and adopt integrated approaches to marine area management.

Both parties agreed to strengthen their cooperation within the framework of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030), with a focus on data sharing, capacity building, and raising awareness on marine issues.

This meeting reflects the Kingdom of Morocco’s commitment to strengthening its international partnerships to preserve the oceans and sustainably develop marine resources.

The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO is the sole body within the United Nations system responsible for supporting ocean science and services on a global scale. It works to promote international cooperation in this field with the goal of improving the management of oceans, coasts, and marine resources.

The Commission provides a framework for collaboration among its 151 member states and coordinates programs on capacity building, ocean observation, scientific research and marine services, tsunami warning systems, and the promotion of ocean literacy. Its activities contribute to UNESCO’s mission of advancing science and its applications to enhance knowledge and capabilities. The IOC is also responsible for coordinating the Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030).

Morocco is a key actor in initiatives related to the sustainable management of oceans. It is an active member of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO and participates in numerous programs related to marine sciences, the conservation of marine biodiversity, and adaptation to climate change.

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