00:00Morocco's King Mohamed VI on Friday called on public institutions to give greater priority
00:06to youth issues as he opened a new parliamentary session in Rabat.
00:10His call comes after months of youth-led protests highlighted frustrations and expectations
00:15around social and economic opportunities.
00:17He also defended the partnership with Spain, announcing plans to redefine bilateral cooperation
00:22after July's mass migration into its Ceota exclave.
00:29In the face of irresponsible statements made by certain political and media circles,
00:33we affirm that partnership is a sovereign choice and a voluntary commitment which cannot be
00:38subject to any pressure or threat, nor any form of blackmail.
00:44Many of those who crossed over into the Spanish territory were young people.
00:48They've been calling notably for public health care reform, better education and more jobs
00:52to reduce soaring youth unemployment.
00:54The King called for a new generation of economic strategies, greater private sector investment
01:00and expanded opportunities for young Moroccans.
01:05Youth-related issues must be placed at the forefront of public policies and of the concerns of governing bodies
01:12through the development of an integrated vision that guarantees equal opportunities
01:18and encompasses education, skills development and economic inclusion.
01:26The King also criticized delays in transferring powers and resources to regional authorities
01:31and highlighted the need for better water, energy and food security.
01:35Following his speech, opposition MPs said they'll be watching to see whether the priorities raised
01:39are translated into specific actions rather than remaining broad political objectives.
