Statement by the Royal Office Following the 35th African Cup of Nations

His Majesty the King particularly wishes to congratulate all citizens, across various cities of the Kingdom, for the efforts deployed, and to thank each and every one for their valuable contribution to this historic success, which has been acknowledged and acclaimed worldwide.

The Sovereign also addresses His congratulations to millions of Moroccan women, men and children who, in an exemplary manner and each in their own way, tirelessly supported their national team, currently ranked 8th best national team in the world. Such remarkable result, fruit of a high-level proactive sports and infrastructure policy, as well as the patriotic choice made by talented youth of Moroccan Expatriates to opt for the national team’s jersey and to defend its colors with pride and gusto.

This edition of the continental competition will stand as a milestone, as, beyond its sporting outcomes, it made for a gauge for the Kingdom’s major leap on the path to development and progress, fruit of a long-term vision and a unique and efficient Moroccan model which puts the citizen at the heart of all ambition.

Moreover, even if this major continental football celebration hosted by the Kingdom appears to have been sadly marred by the unfortunate events of the final minutes of the match between the national teams of Morocco and Senegal, during which regrettable incidents and deeply deplorable behavior occurred, it remains nonetheless that, once passions have subsided, inter-African fraternity will naturally prevail, for this Moroccan sucess is also an African sucess. Morocco remains proud to have offered, on its soil, a month of popular joy and sporting emotion, and to have contributed to the prominence of Africa and its football.

Furthermore, in view of the denigration and attempts at discrediting sustained, His Majesty the King, may God assist Him, remains convinced that hostile schemes will never reach their aims, and that Moroccan people know to balance matters and not to be drawn into resentment and discord. Nothing will alter the closeness that was fostered over centuries between our African people, nor the fruitful cooperation built hand in hand with different countries of the Continent, bolstered by ever ambitious partnerships.

The Kingdom of Morocco is and shall remain a great African country, faithful to the spirit of brotherhood, solidarity and an always nurtured mutual respect towards its Continent.

In accordance with the enlightened Vision of the Sovereign, Morocco will further its resolute and steadfast commitment in favor of a united and prosperous Africa, notably through mutual exchange of experiences, expertise and knowledge."