Princess Lalla Hasnaa Makes Waves at UN Ocean Conference in France

Morocco takes the spotlight in global ocean diplomacy as Princess Lalla Hasnaa champions Africa’s marine future at the UN Ocean Conference in Nice

Princess Lalla Hasnaa of Morocco joined a high-profile lineup of global leaders on June 9 in Nice, France, for the third United Nations Ocean Conference. Representing King Mohammed VI, she brought a clear and powerful message to the table: Africa’s oceans matter more than ever, and it's time the world pays attention.

A Gathering of Global Powerhouses

Hosted by France and Costa Rica, this year’s UN Ocean Conference has pulled in over 50 heads of state and government, along with 1,500+ delegates from nearly 200 countries. Major figures like UN Secretary-General António Guterres, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves Robles kicked off the event, setting the tone for a week packed with bold ideas and urgent action.

The Mission: Save Our Oceans

Under the theme “Accelerating action and mobilising all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean,” the conference is diving into critical challenges. From unsustainable fishing practices and marine pollution to the growing impact of climate change on biodiversity, this gathering is all about solutions and solidarity.

Princess Lalla Hasnaa: A Voice for Africa’s Oceans

In a heartfelt speech delivered on behalf of King Mohammed VI, Princess Lalla Hasnaa highlighted Africa’s underappreciated marine potential. The King’s message was clear: African seas are rich in resources, but they’re vulnerable and underutilized. He called for international recognition of the ocean as a vital pillar of food security, energy independence, climate resilience, and regional cooperation.

Diplomacy with a Personal Touch

Ahead of the formal proceedings, Princess Lalla Hasnaa attended a gala dinner hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron on June 8. The evening brought together dignitaries for a moment of connection before diving into the conference’s demanding agenda.

Why This Conference Matters

Running through June 13, the UN Ocean Conference in Nice is more than just another diplomatic event. It’s a turning point for ocean governance, uniting countries, institutions, and activists behind a common goal: protecting the lifeblood of our planet. And with Morocco playing a prominent role, the voice of Africa is being heard loud and clear on the global stage.

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