Moroccan forests faring well, minister

Moroccan forests are relatively faring well, the Moroccan water and forests minister said.

Morocco managed to preserve its forests in a relatively satisfactory situation thanks to the reforestation efforts, Said Chbaatou told the press.

Morocco has 9 million hectares of forests that contribute 3% to agriculture Gross Domestic Product. Forests also account for 30% of energy needs and provides 10 million working days.

The government is endeavoring to foster the population's awareness as to the need to preserve forests as a key economic, social and environmental element, he said.