Morocco marks 27th Throne Day in Doha with focus on progress and ties with Qatar

Ambassador Mohamed Setri highlighted Morocco’s development gains, growing cooperation with Qatar and the late Father Amir’s longstanding support for the KingdomMorocco’s Embassy in Qatar brought together dozens of diplomats, senior officials and members of the Moroccan community in the ballroom of the Ritz-Carlton Doha on Sunday to mark the 27th anniversary of King Mohammed VI’s accession to the throne.The reception, hosted by Morocco’s Ambassador to Qatar Mohamed Setri, combined an official ceremony with a wider look at Morocco’s development under King Mohammed VI and the close relationship between Rabat and Doha.Guests included Qatar’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie and Minister of Justice and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Ibrahim bin Ali Al Mohannadi, alongside senior Foreign Ministry officials, ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps.In his address, Ambassador Setri described Throne Day as an occasion for Moroccans to reaffirm their loyalty to the King while reflecting on the country’s progress across economic, social and sporting fields.“This cherished occasion provides the Moroccan people with an opportunity to reaffirm their expression of loyalty and devotion to His Majesty the King, while also celebrating the remarkable achievements and progress accomplished by the Kingdom of Morocco throughout His Majesty’s distinguished reign,” the Moroccan ambassador said.Ambassador Setri pointed to what he described as Morocco’s highest GDP growth rate, improving macroeconomic indicators and rising foreign direct investment.He also highlighted the country’s wider role in Africa through the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline, which brings together 13 countries, and the Atlantic Initiative for Sahel states.Other achievements raised in the speech included Morocco’s leading position in Africa’s automotive industry, growth in aviation exports, record tourist arrivals and jobs generated through major projects and preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.A video screened during the ceremony also highlighted Morocco’s progress across industry, science, technology and education.A relationship shaped by trust and solidarityAmbassador Setri described relations between Morocco and Qatar as “long-standing and strong,” rooted in the close relationship between King Mohammed VI and Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.“For decades, these ties have been reinforced by the close fraternal relationship between His Majesty King Mohammed VI and His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, as well as by the mutual affection and esteem shared by the peoples of the two brotherly nations,” he said.The Ambassador said bilateral relations had expanded through regular consultation, high-level visits and agreements covering economic development, investment, tourism, education and the judiciary.He also recalled King Mohammed VI’s response following the Iranian attacks on Qatar.“His Majesty King Mohammed VI promptly called his brother, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, to convey the Kingdom of Morocco’s unwavering solidarity and support for Qatar, while firmly condemning any act of aggression that threatens its security and stability,” Ambassador Setri said.Before closing his remarks, the ambassador paid tribute to the late Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and his longstanding relationship with Morocco.Quoting King Mohammed VI’s condolence message, Ambassador Setri said Morocco “greatly cherishes the late Amir’s enduring fraternal bonds and steadfast solidarity with Morocco in times of both prosperity and hardship”.“He was always committed to supporting his second homeland, Morocco, whether in its development efforts or in defending its legitimate causes,” the ambassador added.The formal ceremony ended with Ambassador Setri and Qatari dignitaries taking part in a Throne Day cake cutting. Guests then gathered around a generous Moroccan buffet, where pastilla, mint tea and saffron-flavoured desserts formed part of a wider spread showcasing the Kingdom’s cuisine and hospitality.