Princess Lalla Hasnaa, representing King Mohammed VI of Morocco, took part in the opening of the third United Nations Ocean Conference on Monday, June 9, in Nice, France. The event, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, has drawn more than 50 heads of state and government, as well as over 1,500 delegates from nearly 200 countries.
The conference opened with speeches from key global leaders, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves Robles. The theme of this year’s gathering is “Accelerating action and mobilising all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean.” Discussions throughout the week will centre on urgent issues such as sustainable fishing, marine pollution, and the effects of climate change on ocean biodiversity.
Princess Lalla Hasnaa’s presence underscores Morocco’s deepening engagement in international environmental initiatives and its leadership in ocean conservation efforts. In her address, delivered on behalf of King Mohammed VI, she conveyed a strong message about the strategic importance of Africa’s marine spaces. The King emphasised that while African seas possess vast natural wealth, they remain underutilised and vulnerable. He urged global leaders to recognise the ocean not just as a potential resource, but as a shared domain that plays a vital role in ensuring food security, energy independence, climate resilience, and regional unity.
“The ocean reflects our identity, our consumption patterns, and the legacy we leave behind,” the King noted. “It is our duty to protect and manage them together — Africa stands at the heart of this mission.”
Ahead of the official opening, Princess Lalla Hasnaa also attended a formal dinner hosted by President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron on Sunday, June 8, in honour of the visiting dignitaries.
The UN Ocean Conference in Nice runs through Friday, June 13, and is considered a critical forum for…
