The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has pledged continued support for Morocco’s ambitious sustainable infrastructure plans ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup,emphasizing governance,inclusion,and climate adaptation as key pillars of development.
Speaking at the “2030 World Cup,World Climate” event at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in Rabat,EBRD Vice-President Mark Bowman lauded Morocco’s vision for leveraging the tournament as a catalyst for inclusive and resilient infrastructure development. The bank,which has already invested 5 billion euros in Morocco,remains committed to supporting this transformative agenda.
The partnership reflects Morocco’s determination to set new standards for sustainable mega-event hosting,following its co-hosting arrangement with Spain and Portugal for football’s premier tournament. The Kingdom aims to demonstrate that major sporting events can drive long-term sustainable development rather than creating white elephant projects.
EBRD’s involvement focuses on ensuring infrastructure investments deliver lasting benefits beyond 2030. Priority areas include sustainable transportation networks connecting host cities,renewable energy integration for stadium operations,water management systems addressing regional scarcity,and urban development projects promoting social inclusion.
Bowman emphasized that Morocco’s approach aligns perfectly with EBRD’s mandate of promoting environmentally sustainable and socially inclusive growth. The bank’s expertise in climate finance and green infrastructure positions it as an ideal partner for Morocco’s ambitious plans.
The collaboration extends beyond traditional infrastructure to encompass digital connectivity,smart city solutions,and climate resilience measures. These investments aim to enhance Morocco’s competitiveness while creating a legacy of sustainable development for future generations.
Morocco’s strategy represents a paradigm shift in World Cup preparation,prioritizing environmental sustainability and social impact alongside sporting excellence. This approach could establish new benchmarks for future mega-event hosts globally.
Head of the tournament’s organizing committee and President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) Fouzi Lekjaa also addressed the conference,expressing Morocco’s commitment to making the 2030 FIFA World Cup a global benchmark for environmental sustainability and social inclusion.
The World Cup,to be co-hosted with Spain and Portugal,is being described as a “Green World Cup,” Fouzi Lekjaa,who is also Morocco’s Minister Delegate for the Budget told the conference,outlining Morocco’s ambitious sustainability agenda for the event which he described as a unique opportunity to accelerate Morocco’s transition toward a more sustainable and equitable development model.
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