Marrakech, Morocco – The first constitutional session of the Parliamentary Economic Forum of the Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf region, initiated by the House of Councilors of the Kingdom of Morocco and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean, opened on Wednesday in Marrakech.

The high-level meeting, attended by parliamentarians from more than 30 countries as well as government officials, senior private sector executives, academics, experts, businessmen and representatives of civil society, is intended to be an opportunity to strengthen cooperation between the two geographical areas and to intensify efforts to meet common challenges together, the most important of which is economic growth and the preservation of peace and security in the region.

Oman was represented by State Council members, including Hon Saleh Zakwani and Hon Dr Ahmed bin Ali al Amri, and international relations specialist Yarub Mohammed.

The forum also sets the objective of promoting integrated economic and financial zones, while ensuring the implementation of more sustainable practices and a transition to green energy in keeping with global efforts to reduce the effects of climate change while decreasing dependence on carbon-based fuels.

It aims to also propose tangible solutions to challenges pertaining to food, fuel and fertilisers, among others, to better prepare the countries of the region to face possible future shocks, including financial and health crises.

On the sidelines of the forum, the members of State Council met Speaker of the Moroccan House of Advisors Enaam Mayara. During their meeting, they exchanged views on matters of common interest.

The members also met Pedro Roque, President of the Mediterranean Parliament.