The National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF) and the European Union Delegation in Morocco officially launched an institutional twinning project on Thursday in Rabat. The initiative aims to promote sustainable, inclusive, and resilient management of Morocco's forests, as part of the European program Al Ard Al Khadraa – Green Land. Funded by the European Union, the project reflects a partnership dedicated to addressing climate change, preserving natural resources, and strengthening institutional capacities in forest and environmental governance, according to a statement from ANEF. The launch event, presided over by Abderrahim Houmy, Director General of ANEF, brought together representatives from the EU Delegation in Morocco, along with partner countries including France, Spain (Andalusia), Italy, and Sweden. Also in attendance were the Director of Treasury and External Finance at Morocco's Ministry of Economy and Finance, as well as several institutional leaders and experts. This institutional mobilization underscores the priorities of the Forests of Morocco 2020–2030 strategy. In this context, the twinning project is led by a European consortium coordinated by France, and is centered on peer exchanges, best practice sharing, and knowledge transfer. Key focus areas include forest governance, technological innovation, applied research, and capacity building for forest managers and technicians. Abderrahim Houmy emphasized that the twinning project goes beyond technical cooperation. «It is a strategic partnership rooted in mutual exchange and institutional innovation», he stated. «It will enrich management practices, build lasting bridges between European and Moroccan institutions, and promote a shared culture of sustainability in the service of forests». The initiative was launched on the International Day for Biological Diversity, celebrated under the theme «Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development», to highlight the importance of biodiversity for ecosystem balance. The ceremony included interactive activities and the signing of the protocol agreement.
