"We take a positive view of Morocco's choice to host these Annual Meetings, and we admire the efforts made by the authorities to bring the international community together in Marrakech in the wake of the terrible earthquake that struck parts of the country on September 8", stressed Fayolle in an interview with MAP.

According to him, "being gathered in Marrakech in the wake of this tragic event also reminds us that, in the face of the devastation caused by natural disasters, we need ambition, pragmatism and speed in our responses to the challenges of reconstruction and development".

The EIB vice-president also pointed out that holding such an event in Morocco "offers a unique platform for putting forward the voices and concerns of African countries and other emerging and developing nations", adding that “in a world where cooperation is vital, we are convinced that these Meetings will help to advance concrete initiatives in favor of projects linked to digitalization, the fight against climate change, clean energies, healthcare, education and transport".