(MENAFN- Morocco World News) 
Rabat – Moroccans living overseas have received special thanks from Minister Delegate in Charge of Moroccans Residing Abroad and Migration Affairs Abdelkrim Benatiq , who emphasized their important role in defending Morocco's national cause across the globe.
In a meeting held on Sunday in Skhirat, a coastal city 45 kilometers south of Rabat, Benatiq underscored the contribution of Moroccan expats to consolidate their ties with their homeland.
The official then said that the number of Moroccans living abroad is estimated at 5 million.
He added that wherever Moroccans are living, they always show concern for issues related to their country.
The meeting was dedicated to evaluate several issues of concern to MREs, including investment.
According to the minister, Moroccan expats 'represent a model of coexistence and respect for each other's beliefs.'
To express gratitude for the expats, Benatiq said that his ministry is working to implement programs to further consolidate the ties between Moroccans and their country of origin.
These programs, according to the official, are part of the national strategy aimed at preserving the identity of the members of the Moroccan community overseas. It is also designed to protect their rights, interests, and to promote their adhesion to the development of Morocco.
The meeting also marked Morocco's ongoing celebration of Throne Day, which started on July 29 and will continue until Tuesday, July 31.
Head of the Moroccan Center for Strategic Studies Mohammed Benhammou emphasized in a statement to Maghreb Arab Press that unity and territorial integrity are a priority for Moroccan foreign policy. He added that the country is in a strong position on all diplomatic levels.
Khalid Chagraoui of the Institute of African Studies said that Moroccan investments in Africa are of strategic importance.
He noted that Africa is full of natural resources, including 260 million hectares of undeveloped agricultural land that could improve food security on the continent.
He added that Morocco has considerable experience in agriculture and food industries.
Earlier this month, Benatiq said that the number of Moroccans returning may peak in the last two weeks of July before Eid Al Adha, the 'Festival of Sacrifice,' the second of two Islamic holidays celebrated worldwide annually.
Morocco is expected to celebrate Eid Al Adha on August 22.
The official claimed that 961,000 Moroccan expats returned to Morocco on July 17 alone.
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