Morocco, which will be co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, has launched mega infrastructure and cleaning projects to boost their tourism sector. The country reportedly welcomed a historic 17.4 million tourists in 2024 and surpassed Egypt as Africa's top tourist destination as well. It expects around 26 million tourists in the World Cup year and is expanding its three major airports in Marrakech, Casablanca and Agadir. It also added over a lakh new hotel rooms and expanded airport operations.

However, a project that plans to eliminate around 3 million stray dogs to keep the Moroccan streets safe and clean has received flak. Reports indicate that the Moroccan authorities are employing methods like poisoning or shooting the dogs. Meanwhile, animal lovers and animal welfare organisations across the globe have been demanding FIFA to intervene in the matter. Many conservationists, including Dr Jane Goodall, have written to FIFA to act immediately. Morocco isn't generally considered a dog-friendly country and isn't kept as a pet in many families. Regardless, 

Why is Morocco killing dogs?
As per reports, Moroccan authorities are quoting the concerns about rabies, its impact on tourism, and the population management of dogs as the reasons for the culling. Apparently, it is considered a cost-effective, easy solution for managing the population. Many videos have also been shared on social media showing injured and poisoned dogs on Moroccan streets. PETA India has also urged its supporters to step in by sending a letter to the Moroccan Ministry of Interior, calling to end the massacre.

What to see in Morocco?
Morocco is a beautiful country known for its ancient cultural heritage and beautiful landscape. Besides, some parts of the great Sahara Desert can be seen in this country. Meanwhile, their national team performed their best in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, finishing fourth. Rabat, which is the seventh largest city in the country, is Morocco’s capital. Chefchaouen, called the Blue City, is noted for its buildings painted in myriad shades of blue and is nestled between the Rif mountains. Meanwhile, the red sandstone walls and the classy buildings of Marrakesh give it the name ‘Red City’. Morocco was the first country to accept the USA as independent after the latter won freedom from Britain. In 2023, a deadly earthquake struck Morocco, killing hundreds of people and causing severe damage.

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