Dakhla - The inaugural International Forum on the Moroccan Sahara commenced on Wednesday in Dakhla, marking a significant gathering of academics and researchers from various disciplines. Organized by the University Institute of African, Euro-Mediterranean, and Ibero-American Studies, in collaboration with the Rayonnement Center for Geopolitical and Strategic Studies, the forum's thematic focus aligns with the visionary perspective outlined by HM King Mohammed VI. The event, held in partnership with the National School of Commerce and Management (ENCG) of Dakhla and the Council of the Dakhla-Oued Eddahab Region, aims to catalyze scholarly discourse and forward-looking analysis concerning the emerging geo-economic landscape in the region. Mohamed Dhafer Kettani, the acting director of the University Institute, emphasized the forum's role as an opportunity for experts and scholars to deliberate on strategies for supporting sustainable development in the Moroccan Sahara. He outlined three key axes of discussio n: the Sahara's pivotal role in the Afro-Atlantic and Sahel regions, geo-economic challenges and development prospects, and the geopolitical dynamics amidst security risks. El Khattat Yanja, President of the Council of the Dakhla-Oued Eddahab Region, underscored the forum's significance in spotlighting His Majesty King Mohammed VI's development vision, particularly for the Southern Provinces of the Kingdom and the broader African continent. Meanwhile, Mohamed El Kihel, President of the Rayonnement Center, highlighted the forum's focus on the Royal Initiative for the Atlantic, describing it as a transformative endeavor with economic, geopolitical, and strategic dimensions. He emphasized Morocco's historical role and its enduring commitment to South-South cooperation under HM the King's leadership. Lakhdar Abdoulbaki Mohamed, director of the Nigerian Center for Arab Studies, commended Morocco's integrated African policy and its efforts towards fostering peace and stability in the region. He praised the Initi ative for the Atlantic for its potential to harness African resources and capacities in a cooperative framework. The forum agenda encompasses a range of themes, including the Sahara's role in regional dynamics, geo-economic challenges, geopolitical complexities, and Morocco's relations with Sahel countries. In a parallel development, three cooperation agreements were inked between the Rayonnement Center, ENCG Dakhla, the Nigerian Center for Arab Studies, and the Center for Research and Regional and International Studies in Chad, highlighting the commitment to scholarly collaboration and knowledge exchange beyond borders. Source: Agence Marocaine De Presse