Morocco’s Minister of Solidarity, Social Integration, and Family, Aawatif Hayar, held talks with her Qatari counterpart, Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad, on Monday in Rabat in a bid to enhance bilateral relations between the two countries and advocate for gender equality.
The meeting aimed to explore ways to deepen the ties between Morocco and Qatar and enhance mutual cooperation to promote gender equality.
The two ministers delved into the different social welfare services that their governments provide to their respective citizens, exchanging ideas and strategies on how to further improve these programs.
During the meeting, the Moroccan minister emphasized the importance and strength of bilateral ties between the two nations.
She highlighted Morocco’s historic turn since the adoption of the 2011 Constitution, which aimed to create a more democratic and inclusive society as well as promote human rights, and equality.
The Moroccan minister stressed that Morocco’s 2021-2026 government program aims to promote gender equality and empower women in a wide range of sectors.
The Moroccan government is committed to increasing female employment from 20% to 30% by 2026, she noted.
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Hayar also recalled the establishment of the National Committee for Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment, which is also part of the government’s 2021-2026 program.
Qatar’s minister also emphasized the historical significance of the relationship between Qatar and Morocco and discussed a variety of potential partnership opportunities between the two nations.
The areas of potential collaboration included women’s issues, children’s welfare, support for disabled people, and family support.
The Qatari minister discussed particular social service centers as well as the various initiatives and plans in place to offer support.
Citing means to achieve women’s economic empowerment, the minister suggested the promotion of regional and local goods.
Both countries demonstrated a willingness to support social development and underrepresented groups.
Initiatives aimed at empowering women as well as achieving gender equality are of utmost importance, given Morocco’s low female labor participation rates, which have been steadily declining in recent years.
Recent HCP findings indicate that 80% of Morocco’s female population of working age is outside the labor market.
The World Bank has described the situation as “astonishing,” arguing that it poses a major challenge for the Moroccan economy.
