Speaking before the Finance Committee of the House of Representatives, the government official defended, with figures and solid arguments, the Kingdom’s strategic vision, affirming that “the World Cup is neither a whim nor a financial burden, but a powerful accelerator of national development.”
In a speech marked by lucidity and patriotism, Fouzi Lekjaa emphasized that the investments made for the joint organization of the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal are part of a sustainable and economically efficient approach. “These projects are not temporary,” he said. “They are part of the Royal vision of an emerging Morocco, where every dirham invested helps transform infrastructure, modernize public services, and create jobs for young people.”
The minister specified that the major projects related to the World Cup would not weigh on the State’s general budget. About half of the 3 billion dirhams allocated will go to the National Railway Office (ONCF) to strengthen connectivity between host cities—an investment that will benefit the entire country in the long term. “We are talking about a nationwide project that stimulates health, transport, tourism, energy, and training. This is a cross-sectoral vision of development, not an isolated event,” he stressed.
Responding to unfounded criticism spread on social media and by certain hostile media outlets, Fouzi Lekjaa denounced “a campaign orchestrated by those who have never accepted Morocco’s successes or its growing regional and international influence.” Without naming anyone, he clearly referred to both external and internal actors who, in his view, are trying to sow doubt and division at a time when the Kingdom is reaping the rewards of years of reform and ambition.
“We are facing a carefully crafted disinformation operation aimed at tarnishing Morocco’s image. The calls for boycott have no economic or social basis. They simply reflect the frustration of those who, unable to shine themselves, try to dim the light of others,” Lekjaa declared, to applause from the parliamentarians.
In conclusion, the Minister reaffirmed Morocco’s determination to make the 2030 World Cup a showcase of its expertise, unity, and modernity: “Morocco is moving forward. And nothing—neither rumors nor manipulations—will divert our country from its path. This World Cup is a historic opportunity, a symbol of Moroccan excellence, and a legacy for future generations.”
Far from sterile controversy, Fouzi Lekjaa embodies the voice of a confident, ambitious, and composed Morocco, true to the enlightened vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, who places sport and major national projects at the heart of the Kingdom’s development and international standing.
Translated from Abderrazzak Boussaid’s French article – le7tv