Morocco commemorates the 28th anniversary of the passing of King Hassan II, a monarch who left an indelible mark on the country's history. The nation remembers his grand work in serving the country, just causes of the Arab-Islamic community, and global peace and security. This commemoration is a solemn moment to pay tribute to the founder of the modern state and the King who shaped Morocco's modern history.
King Hassan II ascended to the throne in 1961, following in the footsteps of his father, King Mohammed V. He strengthened the foundations laid by his predecessor and embarked on nation-building and unification efforts, elevating Morocco's status among nations. Under his reign, Morocco consolidated its national unity, notably recovering the provinces of Sidi Ifni in 1969 and Oued Eddahab in 1979.
A pivotal moment in Morocco's history was the organization of the Green March on November 6, 1975, a peaceful and memorable event that showcased the country's commitment to resolving disputes peacefully. This march was instrumental in completing Morocco's territorial integrity. King Hassan II also prioritized building an independent, robust, and resilient national economy, launching the "dam policy" in 1966.
The "dam policy" proved successful and greatly benefited the country, particularly during periods of drought and water scarcity. Coupled with an ambitious agricultural policy, this initiative cemented Morocco's agricultural vocation and made the sector a driving force for overall development. King Hassan II was also dedicated to ensuring the social well-being of his people and preserving the values of cohesion, solidarity, and mutual aid that characterize Moroccan society.
At the international level, King Hassan II's charisma, foresight, and open-mindedness earned him respect and admiration from world leaders. Under his wise leadership, Morocco secured a prominent place in the international community, made its voice heard in global forums, and played a significant role in various regional and international issues.
King Hassan II's actions for the fight against colonialism, the establishment of peace, and the achievement of development and prosperity in Africa have been recognized globally. He was awarded the Pan-African Prize by Ethiopia on November 1, 2022, for his dedication to Africa's emancipation and pan-Africanism. The King had adopted a clear and balanced vision for Morocco's foreign policy, advocating for openness to the Western world while preserving the country's Islamic, Arab, African, and Mediterranean roots.
As Commander of the Faithful, King Hassan II consistently advocated for the unity of the Islamic community in the face of dangers and threats to the Islamic world. The commemoration of the 28th anniversary of his passing is an opportunity for Moroccans to pay tribute to a great King who led Morocco into the modern era and to reiterate their loyalty to the Alawite Throne.
Key points
- King Hassan II's legacy as a builder and leader continues to shape Morocco's development and identity.
- The Green March of 1975 was a pivotal moment in Morocco's history, showcasing the country's commitment to peaceful dispute resolution.
- King Hassan II's efforts for African emancipation and pan-Africanism have been recognized globally, earning him the Pan-African Prize in 2022.
