Morocco's King Mohammed VI has called on the government to launch a new wave of reforms aimed at reducing regional inequalities and ensuring balanced development across the country. In his annual speech marking 26 years on the throne, the king emphasized that it is unacceptable for Morocco to be divided between prosperous and disadvantaged regions. While national poverty rates have declined, many rural and inner regions still face high poverty and lack essential infrastructure.

The king highlighted the need for improvements in social services, education, health care, and water management, as well as efforts to boost employment. Despite growth in industrial sectors like aerospace and car manufacturing, economic activity remains concentrated in the northwest, leaving other regions reliant on agriculture and tourism. The king also reiterated Morocco's openness to dialogue with Algeria, amid ongoing tensions over Western Sahara and diplomatic disputes.