RABAT--Morocco has selected Ketchum Pleon to handle a seven-figure brief across Europe, designed to address a dramatic drop-off in tourism levels.

The decision follows a competitive review, and will see Ketchum promote the country in the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Belgium and the Netherlands. The engagement will be led from Ketchum Pleon's Paris office by president Jean Martial Ribes.

The UK component will be led by Cat Jennings in London. Budgets by market have yet to be set.

According to the Washington Post, Morocco’s economy has been affected by a 20 percent decline in tourism. Arab Spring protests have led to the launch of a new constitution, guaranteeing equality for women and mandating an independent judiciary.

“Ketchum Pleon’s understanding of our economic challenges and in-depth knowledge of the sector makes it the ideal partner to help us attain our objectives,” said Hamid Addou, head of the Moroccan National Tourist Office.