Omar Hilale urges Non-Aligned Movement to modernize for 21st-century challenges

Omar Hilale, Morocco’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, has called on the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) to modernize its operations and move away from outdated approaches. Speaking in Belgrade during a meeting commemorating the 65th anniversary of the movement, Hilale emphasized that NAM must adapt to the multidimensional challenges of the 21st century to maintain its effectiveness and credibility.

He noted that the movement must address emerging global issues, including climate change, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital divides, food and energy security, and transnational crime. Rather than replacing the existing multilateral international system, Hilale suggested that NAM should work to strengthen it by coordinating the priorities and aspirations of the Global South within the United Nations framework.

Hilale also highlighted Morocco’s commitment to South-South cooperation, particularly with African nations. He cited strategic initiatives such as the Atlantic Initiative for Africa and the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline project as examples of Morocco’s efforts to support stability and sustainable development across the continent.