Morocco has once again shown its resilience in difficult times, by reacting with steadfast determination and calm decisions, under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, following the earthquake that shook the Kingdom, writes « The Telegraph » in its Sunday edition.
« I have been struck by Morocco’s remarkable ability to respond swiftly and effectively when confronted with such challenges, » writes the author of the report, James Duddridge, former British Minister for International Trade and former Minister for Africa.
Emergency measures in Morocco were taken from the first moments following the earthquake and included the intervention of the royal armed forces, local authorities, security services, as well as the relevant ministries, notes Duddridge.
« In the short span of 48 hours, Morocco partially reopened a vital route to the earthquake-affected area, creating a lifeline for aid delivery to the hardest-hit regions, » said the current MP, noting that the country’s military helicopters have continuously engaged in rescue and relief operations, while Moroccans have rallied in a remarkable grassroots effort to assist those in need.
His Majesty King Mohammed VI paid a visit to the injured at a hospital, where he checked in directly on the care being provided and donated his blood in solidarity with the victims, the same source recalls.
These rapid measures of relief were just the beginning, observes the British newspaper, pointing out that within three days of the earthquake, Morocco’s government set up a national solidarity fund and Royal directives were issued that included measures aimed at not only rebuilding but also completely transforming and upgrading the affected areas, while also preserving the local culture and heritage.
The directives from His Majesty The King were clear and simple: « All resources must be effectively mobilised to ensure that no one is left without shelter. » Morocco’s response is extensive, ranging from immediate care and the provision of emergency temporary housing to the rapid initiation of reconstruction efforts.
One programme specifically targets around 50,000 homes that have either suffered complete or partial collapse across the five affected provinces. Emergency temporary housing, prioritising structures built to withstand harsh weather conditions, the newspaper adds.
Special provision has been made for those children orphaned by the earthquake. They have been fast-tracked as wards of the nation and qualified teams are seeking early adoption by appropriate families, the publication stresses.
« As Morocco pledges to rebuild in the aftermath of the earthquake, we can anticipate further strong measures that will not only benefit the victims, but also turn this terrible challenge into an opportunity for the progress and resilience of Al Haouz and its neighbouring regions », argues The Telegraph.
Morocco’s long friendship with many countries has seen many give help immediately, the daily adds, welcoming the UK’s mobilisation alongside Morocco.
« Morocco has done so much for other nations, and it is heartwarming to see this reciprocated. This steadfast support further strengthens the bonds of friendship and partnership between our two nations. In addition, global institutions have demonstrated their confidence and faith in Morocco. »
« The greatest support we can give Morocco and its courageous people is to engage even more fully than before, » the same source stresses.
Marrakech will demonstrate the country’s commitment to progress in hosting the annual meetings of the World Bank and IMF next month. « Morocco’s welcome to tourists and visitors is as warm as before », The Telegraph assures.
