Morocco and the European Union (EU) reached a financing agreement worth 190 million euros (almost 2 billion dirhams), on Monday in Rabat, for the Integrated Programme for reconstruction and general upgrading of disaster areas (2024-2028).
The financing agreement was signed by the Minister Delegate in charge of the Budget, Fouzi Lekjaa, and the European Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement, Olivér Várhelyi.
The two-year program (2024-2025) seeks to support people affected by the earthquake by providing access to rehabilitated or rebuilt housing, to help restart public services, especially in health and education sectors, and to boost economic activity while reinforcing territorial cohesion in the affected areas.
Speaking on this occasion, Lekjaa emphasized that the Integrated Programme for reconstruction and general upgrading of disaster areas reflects the Moroccan government’s commitment to meeting the essential needs of the populations stricken by the earthquake.
The minister noted that “more than 63,800 households affected by the earthquake have already received emergency aid.”
He highlighted the exemplary solidarity of Moroccan civil society and the various players’ concerted efforts to ensure sustainable reconstruction and strengthen the resilience of the affected areas.
For his part, Varhelyi pointed out that this contribution aimed at rebuilding essential public services, and revitalizing the local economy.
He praised the European Investment Bank’s involvement, which has agreed to mobilize significant investments, demonstrating the EU’s support for Morocco and its population affected by this disaster.
This agreement completes an initial payment of MAD380 million (35.6 million euros) made in December 2023, bringing total EU aid to over MAD 2.4 billion dirhams in grants (225 million euros).
add your comment
Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.