Poverty rate estimated at 13.7 percent in 2003, Minister

Minister for Social Development, Family and Solidarity, Abderrahim Harouchi, revealed, here Tuesday, that poverty rate in Morocco was estimated at 13.7 percent in 2003.

Harouchi told the press that economic vulnerability was estimated at 25 percent in the same year and the illiteracy rate at 48 percent, notably in rural areas.

According to the human development index, said the minister, these data place Morocco at 125th rank at the world level, which is far behind that of neighboring countries.

Harouchi said his ministry has taken into account different indicators to elaborate an action plan and define its main objectives to establish a comprehensive and integrated policy for social development and fight of poverty.

He added that his ministry is focusing on fighting poverty and exclusion, meeting the needs of impoverished people, and promoting solidarity, participation and partnership.