Casablanca, Morocco; March 25, 2015:Morocco today began the28 millionregeneration of the historic Old Medina of Casablanca, a vital part of the citys history and one of its most appealing tourist attractions. The project is part of Wessal Capitals530 million Casa-Port project, which will transform Casablancas harbour and port area and helprestore the city once known as thejewel of Morocco.

The restoration of the Old Medina is the second phase of the Casa-Port project,with work on the port redevelopment starting last week. When completed, Wessal Casa-Port will offer world-class tourism infrastructure,including the development of the citys first marina, an upgraded port and new commercial and cultural spaces. The public-private partnership is due for completion in five years.

The historic Old Medina is one of Moroccos most importantculturalsites and the countrys largest medina,dating to the sixth century. It has been a focus for Casablancas commercial and civic life for centuries, including currently hosting seven mosques, three synagogues and a church a testament to Moroccos religious openness and sense of tolerance. The regeneration works include creating a 3.7 km tourist pathway winding throughthe medina and connecting withthe new cruise ship terminal, going through all the major heritage buildings combiningtradition and modernityin a way that inspires visitors and the people of Morocco.

Tourism is the second largest contributor to Morocco's GDP and is also the second biggest job creator, playing a vital role in the countrys overall economy.In 2013, tourist arrivals exceeded10 million for the first time. However, Casablanca is oftenoverlooked as a tourist attraction by visitors who instead prioritise travel to other parts of the country, such asMarrakech and Fes. Enhancing the appeal of the medina, which has long been the heart of the city, together with thecoastline district, will help reposition Casablanca as a major destination for cultural, business and cruise tourism.

Morocco projects the investment in Wessal Casa-Port will help revitalise the economy, generating employment in a thriving tourism sector. The project is anticipated to double employment in the area and triple employment in areas indirectly linked to the project. Already 2000jobs have been created in the construction phase alone, with 6000 more planned.

The project reflects His Majesty the King Mohammed VIs personal interest in the social and economic development of Casablanca, as well as the improvement of the standard of living of the citys inhabitants.

The rehabilitation aligns with the Moroccos wider cultural, socio-economic and urban development strategy, which is improving living conditions, creating job opportunities, upgrading the citys buildings and preserving Casablancas historical and cultural legacy.

This project in particular will support the aspirations of Casablancas youth. It has been designed to help them access new economic, social and cultural opportunities which support their own well-being and Moroccos continued growth. Part of the rehabilitation program launched by the King includes setting up work re-insertion centres, especially focused on women and youth, to help some of the inhabitants acquire working skills and take advantage of the local job opportunities created by the vast infrastructure developments underwaynearby. Another initiative is working to improve the marketing of handicraft products produced by the artisans of the medina.