Established in 2022, the "Marrakech Platform" aims to enhance regional cooperation in counter-terrorism through the exchange of information, expertise, and coordination of efforts among African countries. It serves as an important dialogue forum for addressing common challenges and developing effective strategies to combat terrorism and extremism. This international cooperative initiative seeks to strengthen regional efforts to combat terrorism in Africa. Jointly supervised by Morocco and the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism,[1][2] the platform aims to provide a comprehensive and coordinated response to the growing and complex terrorist threats on the African continent.
Significance of the Marrakech Platform
editAfrica is a priority for the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism. Vladimir Voronkov, the Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism, has emphasized Morocco's significant support for the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism through the high-level meeting of heads of counter-terrorism and security agencies in Africa. He stated that the "Marrakech Platform" represents a significant contribution to enhancing regional cooperation in counter-terrorism. He stressed that the complex nature of the terrorist threat requires multilateral cooperation and multi-agency approaches to achieve a stronger and more cohesive regional response.[3]
Second Session of the Marrakech Platform
editThe second high-level meeting of heads of counter-terrorism and security agencies in Africa was held in Tangier, Morocco, starting on June 3, 2023. It saw wide participation from heads of counter-terrorism and security agencies from various African countries, as well as representatives from international and regional organizations concerned with counter-terrorism. Discussions focused on enhancing the capabilities of African countries in counter-terrorism, sharing best practices, and developing new mechanisms for regional cooperation. Morocco's hosting of the second meeting of the Marrakech Platform embodies the kingdom's commitment to combating terrorism at both regional and international levels.[4]
Third Session of the Marrakech Platform
editThe third high-level meeting of heads of counter-terrorism and security agencies in Africa was held in Fez, starting on June 4, 2024. It witnessed wide participation from representatives of African countries and international and regional organizations. The focus was on:[5][6]
- Exchanging information and expertise in counter-terrorism.
- Enhancing cooperation among African countries in this field.
- Developing new strategies to combat terrorism and extremism.
- Utilizing modern technologies in counter-terrorism efforts.
During the opening of the third session, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Bourita, highlighted the royal vision for African cooperation. Bourita emphasized that the Marrakech Platform aligns perfectly with the insightful vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, based on the principles of African belonging and Africa's ability to find solutions to its challenges and take necessary initiatives in this direction.[7]
Positive Development of the Marrakech Platform
editThe "Marrakech Platform" has seen continuous and positive development, both in substance and participation. The third session in Fez witnessed the participation of approximately 60 delegations representing UN member states, including African countries, African partners, and regional and international organizations. This development reflects the growing confidence in the platform as an effective tool for enhancing regional cooperation in counter-terrorism.[8]
References
edit- ^ "Office of Counter-Terrorism". Welcome to the United Nations. 2020-09-10. Retrieved 2024-06-06.
- ^ https://www.un.org/counterterrorism/sites/www.un.org.counterterrorism/files/20240605_press_release_for_the_marrakech_platform_closing.pdf. Retrieved 2024-06-06.
{{cite web}}: Missing or empty|title=(help) - ^ Taibi, FADLI; Technology, Archos (2024-01-17). "Marrakech Hosts High-Level Meeting of Heads of North African, Sahel Counter-Terrorism Agencies". MapNews (in French). Retrieved 2024-06-06.
- ^ "MFA Nasser Bourita takes part in the 2nd High-Level Meeting of Heads of Counter-Terrorism and Security Agencies in Africa "Marrakech Platform"". Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates. 2023-06-02. Retrieved 2024-06-06.
- ^ "MFA Nasser Bourita takes part in the 3rd High-Level Meeting of Heads of Counter-Terrorism and Security Agencies in Africa "Marrakech Platform" in Fez". Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates. 2024-06-04. Retrieved 2024-06-06.
- ^ Elghoubachi, Amina (2023-12-22). "Marrakech to Host Ministerial Meeting on Royal Plan to Grant Atlantic Access to Sahel Countries". Barlaman Today. Retrieved 2024-06-06.
- ^ "Morocco Calls for Use of New Technologies to Address Terror Threats in Africa". www.moroccoworldnews.com/. 2024-06-04. Retrieved 2024-06-06.
- ^ Taibi, FADLI; Technology, Archos (2024-01-17). "High-Level Meeting of Heads of North African, Sahel Counter-Terrorism Agencies: A 'Very Important Initiative'". MapNews (in French). Retrieved 2024-06-06.