Morocco is chairing the 19th Conference of the Eastern Atlantic Hydrographic Commission (EAtHC-19), taking place in Abidjan from July 1 to 3, a strategic gathering bringing together more than twenty countries to address issues related to maritime security, hydrography, and the blue economy.
Chaired by the Hydrography, Oceanography and Marine Cartography Division of the Royal Moroccan Navy Inspectorate, Morocco's presidency reflects the Kingdom's recognized expertise in hydrography, oceanography, and marine cartography. These capabilities are essential for enhancing navigation safety, preserving marine resources, and supporting the sustainable development of maritime areas.
This commitment is part of the vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, particularly through the Royal Atlantic Initiative, which aims to make the Atlantic Ocean a driver of cooperation, shared prosperity, and regional integration for the benefit of African countries.
The conference brings together the main hydrographic services of African Atlantic coastal states, international organizations, scientific institutions, and specialized industry partners. Discussions focus on the modernization of hydrographic services, the implementation of international standards, the management of digital marine data, capacity building, and the strengthening of regional cooperation.
At a time of growing maritime trade and expanding logistics corridors, EAtHC-19 provides a key platform for coordinating the efforts of member states to improve navigation safety while enhancing the competitiveness of African port infrastructure.
Speaking at the opening session, Côte d'Ivoire's Vice President and Minister of Defence, Téné Birahima Ouattara, stressed that mastering hydrographic data is a major strategic issue for national security, maritime surveillance, the fight against piracy, illicit trafficking, and illegal fishing.
The conference is expected to produce several recommendations aimed at strengthening cooperation among member states, improving hydrographic services, and supporting the development of the region's maritime infrastructure.
Chair of the Eastern Atlantic Hydrographic Commission since 2024, Morocco will hand over the presidency of the organization to Spain at the conclusion of the Abidjan conference, after helping strengthen regional cooperation, notably through the organization of the 18th EAtHC Conference and an African seminar on hydrography, oceanography, and marine cartography in Casablanca.