The world has once again been reminded of the devastating power of earthquakes. Morocco was struck by a massive magnitude 6.8 earthquake, leaving a trail of destruction and sorrow in its wake. The earthquake, which occurred in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, with its epicenter located 75 kilometers southwest of Morocco and a depth of 18.5 kilometers, has proven to be a catastrophic event.
The heart-wrenching reality is that over 2,000 lives have been lost, and more than 1,200 people have been left injured in the aftermath of this disaster. It means many more would die in the coming days. The impact of this earthquake continues to reverberate as a series of aftershocks rattle the region. The Moroccan government has declared a three-day mourning period to pay tribute to the lives lost in what is now being termed as the deadliest earthquake in Morocco since 1960, when a devastating earthquake claimed the lives of 12,000 people.
Morocco shares a deep and fraternal relationship with Pakistan, a connection rooted in history and solidarity. It was in 1952 that Ahmed Abdus Salam, a prominent leader of the Moroccan independence movement, faced oppression from the French colonial authorities. He was denied the right to speak in the UN Security Council simply because he represented Morocco, a colony of France. In a remarkable act of support, then Pakistan foreign minister Sir Zafarullah Khan took a bold step by granting a Pakistani passport to Ahmed Abdus Salam. This act of solidarity enabled the Moroccan leader to raise his voice for Morocco’s independence from French rule. On November 19, 1956, Morocco achieved its hard-fought freedom, with Ahmed becoming its prime minister. He acknowledged the Pakistani passport as instrumental in the Moroccan independence movement, stating that they had been of great help.
In these trying times, it is imperative that Pakistan, despite its own economic challenges, extends a hand of support and assistance to Morocco. The bond between the two nations, forged in the crucible of history, calls for solidarity in times of need. The earthquake in Morocco has brought immense suffering and devastation to its people, and it is our moral duty to stand by them.
As the world continues to grapple with natural disasters, the resilience of humanity shines through in acts of compassion and support. Pakistan must come forward to offer aid, relief, and solace to the people of Morocco as they confront this tragic disaster. It is through such acts of solidarity that nations demonstrate the true essence of brotherhood and humanity, transcending borders and adversity.
When such natural calamities struck Pakistan in recent decade, and time to time, Pakistan was able to come out of the devastating effects with international support. As Morocco mourns its losses and begins the arduous task of rebuilding, Pakistan must stand firmly by its side, upholding the bonds of friendship that have connected these two nations for decades. Together, we can overcome the challenges posed by this disaster and emerge stronger, united in our commitment to a better future.