Morocco’s Culture Minister Bensعيد Champions Moroccan Literature at Sharjah International Book Fair
Morocco Shines as Guest of Honor at Sharjah International Book Fair 2024
Morocco took center stage at the 2024 Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), captivating visitors with its rich cultural heritage and vibrant literary scene. Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, led a delegation on a tour of the fair, highlighting the strong ties between Morocco and the UAE.
Bensaid, accompanied by Sharjah Book Authority CEO Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, Moroccan Ambassador to the UAE Ahmed Al-Taazi, and Director of “Archives of Morocco” Latifa Meftaq, began his visit at the Moroccan pavilion. The pavilion showcased a diverse collection of historical manuscripts, maps, and artifacts, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s fascinating past. A dedicated section featured the work of the Foundation for the Preservation of the Cultural Heritage of Rabat, further emphasizing the nation’s commitment to preserving its cultural legacy. Visitors could also explore a curated selection of historical books covering various aspects of Moroccan culture, landmarks, and prominent figures. This immersive experience allowed attendees to delve into the heart of Moroccan history and tradition.
Beyond the Moroccan pavilion, Bensaid and his delegation explored the wider fair, including the section dedicated to Moroccan publishing houses. This provided an opportunity to connect with publishers and discover the latest literary works emerging from Morocco. The SIBF, one of the largest book fairs in the world, attracts millions of visitors annually (according to [insert source with statistics about SIBF attendance]), offering a significant platform for cultural exchange and the promotion of literature.
In a statement to the press, Bensaid emphasized the significance of Morocco’s role as Guest of Honor. He noted that this honor reflects the flourishing relationship between Morocco and the UAE, fostered by the wise leadership of both nations. This partnership, he explained, aims to elevate cultural exchange to the same level as the strong political and economic ties already in place. Bensaid called for innovative approaches to further strengthen cultural cooperation, mirroring the robust collaboration seen in other areas. This sentiment echoes the growing trend of cultural diplomacy, where nations leverage cultural exchange to build stronger international relationships (link to a relevant article or resource on cultural diplomacy).
Morocco’s presence at SIBF 2024 served as a powerful testament to the nation’s rich cultural heritage and its commitment to fostering international collaboration. The event provided a valuable platform for showcasing Moroccan literature, history, and art to a global audience, further solidifying Morocco’s position as a key player in the international cultural landscape. The focus on historical preservation and the emphasis on strengthening cultural ties underscore the importance of cultural exchange in building bridges between nations. This aligns with the broader global movement towards recognizing and celebrating cultural diversity (link to a relevant article or resource on cultural diversity).
Keywords: Morocco, Sharjah International Book Fair, SIBF, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, cultural exchange, UAE, literature, history, cultural heritage, cultural diplomacy, Rabat, manuscripts, publishing, international relations.
