Nearly a hundred experts, institutional representatives, and economic and social stakeholders from Morocco and abroad will participate in the third edition of the Sea Forum (FDM), scheduled for 6 to 10 May in El Jadida.

As a space for reflection and exchange regarding the sea and coastal zones, the Sea Forum aims to promote the integration of sustainable development into the development strategies of coastal areas; to propose concrete solutions to local issues through international exchanges of best practices and to support their implementation; to create a space for exchange and build networks between all stakeholders (institutional bodies, local authorities, economic and social actors, experts, media); and to involve local actors, students, and associations, helping them to promote their projects and initiatives, among other goals.

Organised by "Eganeo", a consulting firm specialising in sustainable development, the 2015 edition offers a rich and diverse programme including two plenary sessions, five thematic workshops, and two conferences.

Participants will discuss themes related to coastal law, Atlantic mythologies, marine biodiversity in the Mediterranean, Tanger Med, beach and water sports, offshore oil exploration, the economy and taxation of sand, integrated coastal zone management, the Moroccan Pavilion, as well as port and marina infrastructure.

It should be noted that during these various activities, "structuring and innovative projects, feedback from successful experiences in Morocco or elsewhere, and enriching interventions will fuel the reflection of the 2,500 expected participants," the organisers indicated, stressing that the roadmap for this edition aims to "increase the visibility of the Sea Forum in Morocco and internationally and sustainably strengthen the Forum in the calendar of international events, among others."

It is worth noting that this year again, several iconic figures from the "Ecrivains de Marine" (Marine Writers) circle will bring their literary inspiration to El Jadida. Attendees will include Patrice Franceschi, Hervé Hamon, Titouan Lamazou, Marie Dabadie (delegate), Didier Decoin, and Patrick Poivre D'Arvor.

In addition to communication regarding the Sea Forum and its partners, it should be specified that this benchmark international meeting also contributes to the socio-cultural life of the city through initiation and awareness-raising activities for children. This is particularly the case for "L'Archipel des enfants" (Children's Archipelago) (2nd edition), a space open by the seaside and entirely dedicated to children.

According to the organisers, this space of over 1,000 m2 will host 2,500 to 3,000 children this year with a programme including creative workshops led by established artists, painters, sculptors, and photo and recycled art experts; performances, awareness-raising actions, clean energy, kite flying, handicrafts, an introduction to sailing and beach sports (beach tennis and beach rugby), as well as screenings, conferences-debates, quizzes, and games.

Note that a magnificent 9-metre training sailboat, the "Planet Sea", will be officially christened on the sidelines of the Forum and will host dozens of children from all backgrounds throughout the duration of the Forum to introduce them to the pleasures of sailing.

The "Students' Trophy", another action to raise awareness among young people about the protection of the marine environment through the discovery of sailing, will offer a social and ecological university regatta for the second year. Ten schools and universities will be represented in this two-day competition.

The organisers add that an exceptional concert will enhance this edition and that a summary of its work and recommendations will be published and distributed in "The Blue Book" at the end of the Sea Forum.

Let us specify that this event is organised in partnership with Planète Citoyenne, an NGO working for sustainable development and environmental protection.