The studies were carried out within the framework of an agreement concluded through a negotiation procedure, Mr. Rebbah specified during his response to an oral question from the socialist group in the Chamber of Councillors.

These studies concern the natural conditions of the region, the various designs of the said port, its final design and its impact on the environment, while the ANP is currently overseeing the finalisation of the complementary studies for this project.

The minister affirmed that this project essentially aims to improve the Kingdom's port capacity, to strengthen its position in maritime traffic at the regional and international levels and to ensure Morocco's supply of energy products.

Mr. Rebbah noted, moreover, that the financing of the project could be done through a direct participation from the State budget and by a contribution from investment funds. He indicated that financing by loans will be done through the ANP and the beneficiaries of the preference contract within the framework of the partnership between the public and private sectors.

The ANP had scheduled for this year the launch of construction work on the protective barriers and the dredging of the Nador West Med port basin, while the call for tenders should be announced once the studies are completed.