In a statement to the press following his talks with Minister of Equipment and Water, Nizar Baraka, the FAO DG stressed the need to smartly exploit water resources, not only to deal with shortages, but also to develop rural areas and support farmers.

   He also highlighted the potential to improve water efficiency and reduce water consumption in urban areas, stressing that this task is not only the mission of the Water Ministry, but an absolute priority for national development.

   For his part, Baraka said that this meeting was an opportunity to highlight the Moroccan water management strategy in accordance with the High Instructions of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, in particular the integrated approach linking water, food and energy security.

   He also voiced the will to strengthen cooperation between the FAO and the Ministry of Equipment and Water to contribute to strengthening scientific research in order to better manage water resources in Morocco.

   This meeting is part of Qu’s visit to Morocco on the occasion of the 33rd session of the FAO Regional Conference for Africa (ARC33), held on April 18-20 in Rabat.