Prince Moulay Rachid chairs opening of 7th Inter Agriculture Fair

At the beginning of the ceremony, HRH Prince Moulay Rachid handed certificates and trophies to several figures engaged in the development of the agriculture field in recognition of the distinguishing features of quality and origin.     Afterwards, His Royal Highness visited the different stands of the Fair, which is initiated by the Agriculture Ministry under the theme "Research and innovation."     HRH Prince Moulay Rachid was given explanations about the exhibited products at "Regions' Centers" provided by the presidents of regions and chambers of agriculture, as well as at the centers of "Sponsors" and "Research and Innovation."     At the International Centre, HRH Prince Moulay Rachid was provided with explanations in the presence of ambassadors of the countries exhibiting their products.     Explanations were also given to His Royal Highness on the centers of "Life and Nature," "solidarity-based agriculture," "machinery," "products," "products-agricultural supplies," "agricultural supplies breeding" and "breeding."     Earlier, His Royal Highness was greeted by Interior Minister, Mohand Laenser, Minister of Economy and Finance, Nizar Baraka, Minister of Agriculture and Maritime Fishing, Aziz Akhannouch, and Minister of Industry, Trade and New Technologies, Abdelkader Amara.     HRH Prince Moulay Rachid was also greeted by the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food of Canada, the country which is the Fair's guest of honor, Gerry Ritz, Canada's ambassador to Morocco, as well as other Moroccan officials. The theme chosen for this edition is at the heart of the concerns of professionals and part of the large-scale Plan Maroc Vert (Morocco's Green Plan).     According to organizers, it has to do with encouraging and promoting innovative activities of industries presented. "Research and Innovation" is also reflected by the presence of innovative products at the show.     This theme is closely related to the need for a permanent search for more sustainable and competitive farming practices. The Fair confirms its pedagogical approach with its strong program in numerous conferences around the theme "Research and Innovation."     According to organizers the event is expected to attract 700,000 Moroccan and foreign visitors this year. Some 850 exhibitors, including 250 foreign companies representing nearly 40 countries around the world, are attending this edition.     After Germany in 2010 and France in 2011, a special place is reserved for Canada this year as a guest of honor at the 7th edition.     Stretching on a total area of 100,000 square meters, including 70,000 sqm covered, SIAM provides an opportunity to establish partnerships between Moroccan and foreign professionals of the sector and highlight the potential of Moroccan agriculture and its role in the national economy.     A series of conferences and panel of discussions led by scientific experts and professionals from Morocco and abroad will take place as part in this Fair.