Brussels, 11 September 2023 – The World Savings and Retail Banking Institute (WSBI) and the European Savings and Retail Banking Group (ESBG) jointly express their deepest condolences and unwavering support to the people of Morocco, especially our Moroccan members, Al Barid Bank and Caisse de Dépôt et de Gestion, in the wake of the devastating earthquake that struck the region.

The recent earthquake has brought immense challenges to the people of Morocco, causing significant damage to infrastructure and resulting in the loss of precious lives. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragedy, and we extend our heartfelt sympathies to the families and communities grappling with its aftermath.

WSBI and ESBG recognize the immediate international financial assistance that has been provided to Morocco to aid in relief and recovery efforts. The rapid response of the international community to offer support during this difficult time has been commendable. However, the scale of destruction and the needs of the affected population are extensive, and more assistance is urgently required.

The heads of the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, African Union and the European Commission, together with the presidents of France and India, pledged in a joint statement to “mobilise their technical and financial tools and assistance” to help Morocco. Also, The International Federation for Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has released over $1 million from its emergency disaster fund to support the Moroccan Red Crescent’s work on the ground. We hereby call upon governments, international organizations, financial institutions, and individuals worldwide to come together and contribute generously to the relief and rebuilding efforts in Morocco.

Moroccan Red Crescent Society rescue teams are on the ground with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to support search and rescue operations and provide medical and transportation. You can donate to their Disaster Response Emergency Fund here. UNICEF said it is ready to help the Moroccan government with immediate needs. UNICEF is accepting donations. Doctors Without Borders, which responds to medical emergencies around the world, said it is sending teams to Morocco to assess local needs and provide support if necessary. It is collecting donations here.

Al Barid Bank, our esteemed member, has played a crucial role in providing banking services and financial support to the Moroccan people. In this challenging time, we applaud their dedication and resilience in serving their customers and communities, and we pledge our full support to assist them in their efforts to aid the earthquake-affected areas.

WSBI and ESBG reaffirm their commitment to promoting financial inclusion, sustainability, and community development. We will continue to work closely with our members and partners to explore avenues for additional assistance and support to help Morocco recover and rebuild stronger.

In this time of adversity, we stand united with Morocco and its people. Together, we can make a difference and provide hope for a brighter future for all those affected by the earthquake.

Press contact:
Nihan Cevirgen
Communications Manager
nihan.cevirgen@wsbi-esbg.org
Tel. +32 2211 1190 l GSM. +32 (0) 490 57 43 29

About WSBI

Founded in 1924, WSBI brings together savings and retail banks from 64 countries, representing savings and retail banks worldwide. WSBI focuses on international regulatory issues that affect the savings and retail banking industry and provides a platform for knowledge exchange between member banks. Its aim is to achieve sustainable, inclusive, and balanced growth and job creation. Supporting a diversified range of financial services to meet customer needs, WSBI favors an inclusive form of globalization that is just and fair. It supports international efforts to advance financial access and financial usage for everyone. WSBI recognizes that there are always lessons to be learned from savings and retail banks from different environments and economic circumstances. It, therefore, fosters the exchange of experience and best practices among its members and supports their advancement as sound, well-governed, and inclusive financial institutions.

About ESBG:
The European Savings and Retail Banking Group (ESBG) has 21 members in 17 countries. As some of its members are national organisations, ESBG represents the interests of over 800 banks working responsibly and closely with their communities and SMEs. Together, ESBG members manage assets worth €6,300 billion, serve 163 million Europeans and employ nearly 610,000 people. ESBG is the regional arm of the WSBI. Both organisations are headquartered in Brussels. Website: https://www.wsbi-esbg.org/