SIAM, the largest “farm” on the African continent
His iA major agricultural event for Morocco and the African continent, the International Agricultural Show in Morocco (Siam) was inaugurated on Monday, April 22 in Meknes by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan.
This agricultural trade show which showcases the agricultural sector plays an important role in promoting multilateral relations, exchanging expertise and sharing technologies. Hence the interest shown by official foreign delegations and the 1,500 exhibitors representing nearly 70 countries at this 16th edition.
As a reminder, Spain is the featured country at this year’s event, which runs until April 28, 2024, on the theme of “ Climate and agriculture: For sustainable and resilient production systems”.
The 544 square meter Spanish pavilion host some 40 companies. The Iberian representation will serve as a meeting point to promote trade and partnerships between Moroccan and Spanish companies. Indeed, agriculture occupies a central place in relations between the two countries, constituting an essential pillar of their dynamic cooperation and shared prosperity. The Meknes trade show thus provides an opportunity for officials from the two friendly, neighboring countries to exchange views on agricultural systems with shared characteristics and challenges. “ The Siam (trade show) is positioned today as a unique platform for exchange and communication around our country’s vision and strategy for agricultural development. It offers an ideal opportunity for meetings with our various partners, both national and international «, said Mohamed Sadiki, Minister of Agriculture, reaffirming the major role of this event in promoting sustainable agricultural practices, technological innovation, trade and international cooperation. Another notable presence was that of the French Minister of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty, Marc Fesneau, (Editor’s note: coinciding with the visit of the French Minister of the Interior to Rabat). This reaffirms the thawing of relations between Morocco and France, and paves the way for a new page between the two countries.
According to the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Morocco (CFCIM), the France Pavilion hosts 37 exhibitors, representing the vibrancy and expertise of the French agricultural industry, with a particular focus on innovation and sustainability. “ SIAM marks the relaunch of the exceptional partnership between Morocco and France in the agricultural and forestry sector ”, noted France’s Ambassador to Morocco, Christophe Lecourtier, affirming “the importance of this partnership ”. The ambassador added saying that “ France and Morocco are two agricultural powerhouses in Europe and Africa, with varied and complementary production. Over and above the agribusines trade that links us, sharing our know-how, experience and innovative solutions should enable us to be stronger together in tackling our common challenges, particularly that of climate change, which is accelerating and requires swift action”.
Organized under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, Salon 2024 is committed to raising awareness of climate change issues and providing a platform for technological innovations and adapted, resilient agricultural solutions. Over 950,000 visitors are expected to attend. Finally, it should be noted that national media were not allowed access to the show on Monday morning, April 22, 2024. Journalists were only supposed to receive their badges on Monday April 22 at around 14.00 hours . This measure prevented them from covering the official inauguration of SIAM 2024.
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