Latest news with #LGV
Maroc
6 days ago
- Business
- Maroc
Throne Day: Celebrating Forward-Looking Royal Vision for Emerging, Modern & Prosperous Morocco
Moroccans will celebrate the glorious Throne Day on July 30, an occasion to proudly celebrate the proactive, foresighted and forward-looking vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, who transformed the Kingdom into an emerging, modern and prosperous country. Throne Day stands as a powerful moment of national unity, as well as an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and to look toward an even more promising future. It is the resounding expression of unwavering bonds between the Glorious Alaouite Throne and the loyal Moroccan people. This year's anniversary of the King's Accession to the Throne comes as the Kingdom is reaping the fruits of 26 years of tireless work, under a modernist project shaped and implemented through the impetus of a visionary Sovereign. Major structural reforms have deeply transformed Morocco economically, socially, culturally, institutionally, and in the realm of sports, driven by a dynamic wave of all-encompassing reforms that have touched all vital sectors of the country and the entire national territory. This was echoed by Former head of Spanish government José-Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, in an interview with MAP-Madrid, underlining that today, more than ever, Morocco stands as a 'beacon of economic, social and institutional modernization'. Nowadays, the Kingdom boasts high-quality infrastructure in diverse areas, including highways and expressways, with a network exceeding 2,000 km and expected to reach 3,000 km by 2030; Africa's first high-speed rail line (LGV); and world-class ports such as Tanger Med, ranked among the top 20 container ports globally and the leading port in both the Mediterranean and Africa. Other ambitious projects include Nador West Med and Dakhla Atlantique ports. To many observers, Morocco stands out in energy and green transition as a global and African leader in renewables, with internationally renowned solar and wind power plants and ambitious green hydrogen production projects. Economically, the Kingdom is now recognized as a logistics and industrial hub in strategic sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and agri-food. Today, it is currently well-positioned to join the top 50 of the World Bank's "Doing Business" rankings. These extensive efforts are accompanied by significant social and human development reforms, reflecting His Majesty the King's deep humanistic and social sensibility, who continuously places a high priority on ensuring disadvantaged populations benefit from the benefits of national development. In an interview with MAP-Paris, French geopolitician Frédéric Encel noted that Morocco, under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, is engaged in an 'impressive' development momentum, earning it recognition as 'a true emerging country'. In this spirit, programs such as the National Initiative for Human Development (INDH) and the massive project of universal social coverage are ongoing, alongside flagship projects such as the reform of the Family Code, digitalization of public services, and the education sector. Since His Majesty's accession to the throne, Morocco has strengthened its geopolitical positioning through efficient, assertive and proactive diplomacy, securing numerous achievements in defending the Kingdom's territorial integrity. In an interview with MAP-Brussels, Francis Delpérée, constitutional expert and former Belgian senator, joined in praising the diplomatic advancements achieved by the Kingdom, thanks to the insightful vision of His Majesty the King. To him, these successes have helped garner broad international support, particularly from major world powers, for a definitive resolution of the artificial conflict over the Moroccan Sahara, based on the Moroccan Autonomy Plan. In recent years, Morocco's national cause has made significant strides thanks to the strong impetus and direct involvement of His Majesty the King, who has laid out the Kingdom's fundamental stance on the Moroccan Sahara. Following the United States, Spain, France, and recently the United Kingdom have aligned with this approach. In total, no fewer than 123 countries globally now support Morocco's Autonomy Initiative. On the African continent, Morocco continues to build its presence and image as a nation that acts for Africans and with Africans. Following its triumphant return to the African Union in 2017, Morocco launched major initiatives for the continent, including the Royal Atlantic Initiative, enabling Atlantic Ocean access to the landlocked Sahel countries, and the African Atlantic States Process, along with the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline. Sports is another sector where Morocco has made major strides in recent years. Results on the ground reflect the rising profile of national sport, guided by a perceptive and visionary Royal Vision. Morocco, the first Arab and African country to reach the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, continues to shine in sports, through competitive performance, infrastructure development, and training programs. Crowning this momentum, Morocco has been chosen by FIFA to co-host the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal. This is the first time the tournament will be held across two continents, underscoring Morocco's unique role as a bridge between North and South. In this regard, Zapatero expressed confidence in Morocco's ability to successfully co-host the 2030 World Cup, highlighting the country's 'professionalism,' 'infrastructure,' and the 'enthusiasm' of the Moroccan people. Throne Day remains a solemn moment for all Moroccans to jointly celebrate these achievements, reflecting the maturity of a societal project crafted and led by a visionary Sovereign who remains attentive to His people and their concerns. MAP: 15 July 2025
Maroc
08-05-2025
- Business
- Maroc
UK Reaffirms Commitment to Deepen Partnership with Morocco
The British government reaffirmed on Wednesday its commitment to deepening its partnership with Morocco, hailing the Kingdom as a "trusted partner." The statement was delivered by Ben Coleman, the United Kingdom's Trade Envoy to Morocco and West Africa, during the 8th "Morocco Capital Markets Days" conference, held in the City of London—the country's financial district. Coleman welcomed the convening of this event, emphasizing its role in reinforcing the financial ties between the British and Moroccan financial markets. This conference comes at a time when vast opportunities are being offered for developing economic and trade relations between the UK and Morocco, two countries bound by a relationship that dates back more than 8 centuries. "As Trade Envoy, I am determined to play a role in helping strengthen investments and ensuring that Morocco and the UK are able to seize the opportunities on offer," Coleman said before an audience of diplomats, government officials, and financial professionals. The official emphasized what he described as the special importance the British government attaches to relations with Morocco, aiming to build on the longstanding ties between the two kingdoms to elevate their partnership. The two countries signed their first trade agreement in 1721, over three centuries ago, Coleman recalled, noting that since then, trade between Morocco and the UK has continued to grow. For the UK official, the positive development of economic and trade exchanges between the two countries is a sign of trust and a reflection of shared ambition. He expressed confidence that both nations have all the potential to move forward. "Our economies are highly complementary,' he noted. "Morocco Capital Markets Days" will explore ways to financially support the development of economic relations between the two countries, he added. Coleman also praised Morocco's notable strides in infrastructure development, citing the expansion of the high-speed rail line (LGV) as a key example of transformative projects positioning the Kingdom for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which it will co-host with Spain and Portugal. These projects testify to Morocco's vision and determination, said the British official, expressing the United Kingdom's willingness to take part in the wave of progress the Kingdom is experiencing. The British Prime Minister's Trade Envoy emphasized the importance of the partnership with Morocco in West Africa and beyond. "Morocco is a tremendous gateway to Africa." He also underlined the crucial role the business community has to play in bringing to life a Moroccan-British partnership that matches the aspirations and potential of both countries. The 8th edition of the Morocco Capital Markets Days will continue until Friday in the British capital. More than 34 Moroccan listed companies and a wide range of capital market players engage with key stakeholders in the City and forge partnerships. This year's edition is part of the Morocco Business Weeks, held in London from April 28 to May 9, with the aim of highlighting Morocco's economic potential and strengthening cooperation with the United Kingdom. Through this event, the Casablanca Stock Exchange reaffirms its commitment to connecting the Moroccan capital market with major international financial centers and enhancing Morocco's appeal to foreign investors.
Morocco World
25-04-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Emmanuel Macron Applauds Morocco's Kénitra-Marrakech High-Speed Rail
Doha – French President Emmanuel Macron has saluted Morocco's launch of construction works for the Kénitra-Marrakech high-speed rail line (LGV), a major infrastructure project inaugurated by King Mohammed VI on Thursday at the Rabat-Agdal train station. 'Franco-Moroccan cooperation is advancing at high speed! His Majesty King Mohammed VI launched yesterday the works on the new high-speed rail line between Kénitra and Marrakech,' Macron wrote today on social media platform X. 'This is the concrete result of partnerships formed between our companies during my state visit to Morocco last October,' he added, concluding: 'Long live the friendship between Morocco and France!' The 430-kilometer line represents a MAD 53 billion ($5.3 billion) investment, excluding rolling stock. It forms part of a larger MAD 96 billion ($9.6 billion) program that includes the acquisition of 168 new trains for MAD 29 billion ($2.9 billion). According to Khalid Khairane, director of high-speed rail projects at Morocco's National Railways Office (ONCF), construction will proceed according to the established timeline to be ready for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal. 'In 2029, we will begin testing on this line to start operations at the end of the same year,' Khairane told the press, noting that studies for the project began in 2022 and three-quarters of the required land has already been acquired. The new line will drastically cut travel times along Morocco's key economic corridor. Journeys will take just 1 hour between Tangier and Rabat, and 1 hour 15 minutes between Casablanca and Marrakech. Read also: Morocco's $9.6 Billion Investment Plan to Connect 43 Cities by 2040 Travel between Tangier and Casablanca, as well as Rabat and Marrakech, will be reduced to 1 hour 40 minutes, while the full stretch from Tangier to Marrakech will take only 2 hours 40 minutes—saving more than 2 hours compared to current travel times. The LGV will also connect Rabat to Casablanca's Mohammed V International Airport in just 35 minutes while serving the new Benslimane stadium. Additionally, high-speed service between Fez and Marrakech will take 3 hours 40 minutes. Luciano Borges, director of equipment at ONCF, revealed that the project includes the acquisition of 18 new-generation high-speed trains (320 km/h) with a capacity of 641 seats each, to be supplied by French manufacturer Alstom. This will expand Morocco's current fleet from twelve to thirty trains. 'Beyond the high recyclability criteria required for these trains (over 97%), the selection process of manufacturers has established judicious partnerships for controlled maintenance through the development of suitable industrial tools,' Borges explained. The high-speed line will serve 59% of Morocco's population and connect economic regions representing more than 67% of the national GDP. It will create thousands of direct and indirect jobs while stimulating several sectors, including industry, services, and tourism. The international press has widely covered the project launch, with Business Insider Africa writing that it 'reinforces Morocco's position as a continental leader in infrastructure development,' noting that the country already operates Africa's only functional high-speed rail network. The project reflects Morocco's strategic vision for sustainable development, particularly promoting collective mobility solutions with a low carbon footprint, while positioning its high-speed rail as a technological showcase for African countries seeking fast and sustainable transport solutions. Tags: Emmanuel MacronKenitra MarrakechMorocco France Relations
Ya Biladi
25-04-2025
- Business
- Ya Biladi
King Mohammed VI launches 96-billion-dirham Kenitra–Marrakech rail project
A new chapter is unfolding for Morocco's railway network. On Thursday, April 24, 2025, King Mohammed VI officially kicked off construction of the future high-speed rail line (LGV) linking Kenitra to Marrakech, from Rabat-Agdal station. Spanning approximately 430 kilometers, this flagship infrastructure project is part of an ambitious national railway program valued at 96 billion dirhams. Its aim: to modernize Morocco's rail network and promote a more sustainable and inclusive model of mobility. This landmark project reaffirms Morocco's commitment to expanding its high-speed rail services, building on the success of the Tangier–Casablanca line while incorporating strong environmental considerations. It aligns with the Kingdom's broader sustainable development strategy and its push for low-carbon transport solutions. Shorter travel times and a new urban dynamic The new line will link several of Morocco's major cities—Rabat, Casablanca, and Marrakech—while also connecting Rabat and Casablanca airports. The time savings are substantial: just 1 hour between Tangier and Rabat, 1 hour 40 minutes to Casablanca, and 2 hours 40 minutes to Marrakech. Rabat will also be connected to Casablanca's Mohammed V Airport in just 35 minutes, with a planned stop at the new Benslimane stadium. A high-speed service between Fès and Marrakech will also be introduced, combining conventional and high-speed lines, with a total travel time of around 3 hours 40 minutes. Designed for speeds of up to 350 km/h, the project will also involve new developments at terminal hubs in Rabat, Casablanca, and Marrakech, including new high-speed and local stations and a maintenance center in Marrakech for servicing the trains. Beyond the LGV extension, the project is part of a broader plan to modernize rail services, including the purchase of 168 new trains for a total of 29 billion dirhams. The goal is to renew the ONCF's fleet, support the rollout of new routes, improve efficiency, and meet the expected surge in demand by 2030. The procurement plan includes : - 18 high-speed trains for the extended LGV network, - 40 trains for traditional intercity routes, - 60 regional rapid transit trains (TNR), - 50 units for urban transport in Rabat, Casablanca, and Marrakech. At the same time, the LGV extension will free up capacity on the conventional network, making way for a new metropolitan commuter train service (TMP) to address urban mobility needs in these three major hubs. This service will stand out for its reliability, frequency, and eco-friendly approach. Building a national industrial ecosystem around rail This major program also serves as a catalyst for developing a genuine railway industry in Morocco. Plans are underway to establish a train manufacturing facility in the country, supported by a network of local suppliers and subcontractors. The goal is to achieve a local integration rate of over 40%. A joint venture between the ONCF and its industrial partners will be set up to handle ongoing and large-scale train maintenance. This will help control costs, enable knowledge transfer, and create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, while training a new generation of specialized workers over the next decade. The project brings together leading global rail manufacturers. French company Alstom will supply the high-speed trains, Spanish firm CAF will provide intercity trains (up to 200 km/h), and South Korea's Hyundai Rotem will supply trains for the metropolitan networks. These partnerships fall under a preferential financing framework, reflecting international investors' confidence in Morocco's railway vision. With this new milestone, Morocco reinforces its role as a pioneer of high-speed rail in Africa and strengthens its ambition to build a more connected, sustainable, and competitive future.
Morocco World
24-04-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
King Mohammed VI Launches Construction of Kenitra-Marrakech High-Speed Rail Project
Doha – King Mohammed VI launched construction work Thursday on the Kenitra-Marrakech High-Speed Rail Line (LGV) at Rabat-Agdal train station, paving the way for a new era of ultra-modern rail infrastructure across the country. The 430-kilometer project forms part of a comprehensive MAD 96 billion ($9.6 billion) railway development program that will transform the country's transportation network. The Kenitra-Marrakech LGV, budgeted at MAD 53 billion ($5.3 billion) excluding rolling stock, reflects Morocco's strategic vision for sustainable development, particularly the promotion of low-carbon collective mobility solutions. 'This project demonstrates Morocco's firm determination to continue developing the national rail network,' said an official statement during the ceremony, noting the railway's role as 'the backbone of a sustainable and inclusive transport system.' The high-speed line will connect Rabat, Casablanca, and Marrakech while serving Rabat and Casablanca airports. It will drastically reduce travel times, with journeys between Tangier and Rabat taking just one hour, Tangier to Casablanca 1 hour 40 minutes, and Tangier to Marrakech 2 hours 40 minutes — saving over two hours compared to current durations. Additionally, the project will link Rabat to Casablanca's Mohammed V International Airport in 35 minutes, with service to the new Benslimane stadium. High-speed service between Fez and Marrakech will take 3 hours 40 minutes, with trains running on conventional tracks from Fez to northern Kenitra before switching to the new high-speed line to Marrakech. The project's technical specifications include constructing a new line designed for speeds up to 350 km/h, terminal zone developments in Rabat, Casablanca, and Marrakech, railway equipment installations, new high-speed stations, commuter train stations, and renovations to existing facilities. A maintenance center for trainsets will also be built in Marrakech. Concurrent with the rail line launch, the National Railways Office (ONCF) announced an unprecedented program to acquire 168 new trains at a cost of MAD 29 billion ($2.9 billion). This investment will strengthen and rejuvenate the entire passenger fleet, including 18 high-speed trains, 40 line service trains, 60 rapid shuttle trains, and 50 commuter trains for metropolitan transit networks in Rabat, Casablanca, and Marrakech. The acquisition program will foster the emergence of a domestic railway manufacturing ecosystem with over 40% local integration, supporting Moroccan businesses and expertise. 'With a local integration rate exceeding 40%, the program demonstrates strong commitment to Moroccan companies and skills,' noted railway officials at the event, adding that it will have 'inevitable positive implications for supporting the national economy, reducing transport costs, and promoting sustainable development.' The program rests on two main components: an industrial dimension establishing a train manufacturing facility with a supplier and subcontractor ecosystem, and a joint venture between manufacturers and ONCF for maintenance throughout the trains' lifecycles. This 10-year modernization initiative promises to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs while training specialized human resources. The transformative project involves renowned international companies, including France's Alstom for high-speed rolling stock, Spain's CAF for inter-city trains capable of 200 km/h, and South Korea's Hyundai Rotem for metropolitan commuter trains, all secured with preferential financing terms. Beyond extending high-speed rail to Marrakech, this comprehensive modernization represents a renaissance for Morocco's entire railway network, modernizing and renewing the ONCF train fleet while creating a rail-based public transport network and an industrial ecosystem with significant economic potential.
