The Moroccan capital strengthens its international leadership through a remarkable participation at the Metropolis World Congress. Under the presidency of Ms. Fatiha El Moudni, Rabat stood out for its initiatives in sustainable urban development, digital governance, and social inclusion, becoming a finalist for one of the most prestigious awards in urban innovation.
The city of Rabat, capital of the Kingdom of Morocco, has reaffirmed its leadership role in smart urban development by participating prominently in the Metropolis World Congress, held in Seoul, South Korea, from September 29 to October 1, 2025, during the “Seoul Smart Life Week”.
The Moroccan delegation was led by Ms. Fatiha El Moudni, Mayor of Rabat and President of Metropolis, accompanied by Ms. Hayat Sami, Head of the Cooperation and Partnerships Department of the Rabat Municipality.
Moroccan Leadership on the International Stage
The congress opened with the Metropolis Board of Directors meeting, chaired by Ms. El Moudni, in a special session celebrating the 40th anniversary of the organization. High-level delegations representing local and regional governments, international organizations, private sector actors, and experts in urban transformation were in attendance.
As part of her official agenda, and by invitation of His Excellency Mr. Chafik Rachadi, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco to South Korea, Ms. El Moudni held an official meeting with him at his residence, marking the start of Morocco’s presence at the event.
Regional Coordination and Arab Leadership
On the following day, the Rabat delegation took part in a preparatory meeting dedicated to coordinating the three main events programmed for the Smart Life Week, as well as attending a high-level meeting of Arab leaders participating in the congress.
On September 29, Ms. El Moudni presided over the official Metropolis Board meeting, followed by the inauguration of the world congress, where she delivered an opening speech alongside the Mayor of Seoul.
That evening, she took part in the Digital Security Forum, presenting a keynote on the “Declaration of Cities on Digital Security and Combating Violence,” reaffirming Metropolis’s commitment, under Rabat’s presidency, to digital governance and rights protection in cyberspace.
Growing Dynamics in International Cooperation
Morocco’s participation culminated in an official dinner honoring the anniversary of Metropolis, attended by the Moroccan ambassador and the Mayor of Seoul. Ms. El Moudni delivered a distinguished speech reaffirming Rabat’s active international role.
During the congress, the President of Rabat held several bilateral meetings with leaders of partner cities, as well as an important meeting with the President of the Chinese Friendship Cities Association, reflecting the growing dynamism of Rabat’s international relations.
