King Mohammed calls for nation-wide mobilization for territorial integrity

"The sacred cause of the Kingdom's territorial integrity must remain the overriding issue that warrants total mobilization nation-wide," Morocco's King Mohammed VI said Friday.

In a speech marking the opening of Moroccan parliament fall session, the sovereign "urged for good use of parliamentary diplomacy to defend this cause effectively, firmly and forcefully, in all forums and under all circumstances,the king said." King Mohammed VI commended the enthusiastic participation of the representatives of the southern provinces in elected bodies.

"This clearly confirms their commitment to the nation's option for democratic management of its local affairs, within the framework of the Kingdom's national unity and territorial integrity, which are unanimously supported by my beloved people under my leadership."

The monarch also voiced resolve to carry on with all substantive reforms, "with the participation of all the forces that count in the nation, particularly our young people, in order to instill in them a sense of responsibility as citizens, and to involve them in the shaping of a democratic nation, firmly committed to solidarity and development."

He reaffirmed determination to ensure that this year is devoted to "consolidating the main pillars of our nation, namely a stable family, a pioneering school system, and a community-based authority dedicated to serving the public and to strengthening the foundations and institutions of a strong democratic State."