The Minister and the accompanying delegation composed of the Director General of the Sharjah Book Authority, Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, the Moroccan Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, Ahmed Tazi and the Director of Archives of Morocco, Latifa Moftaqir, began their visit with the Moroccan pavilion where they were informed of the different sections of this pavilion including heritage and manuscripts, historical maps, a space dedicated to the Foundation for the Safeguarding of the Cultural Heritage of Rabat, as well as a selection of books dealing with various themes linked to Moroccan culture, its tributaries, its components and its significant figures.
In a statement to the press, the minister stressed that the choice of Morocco as guest of honor at this Fair comes in a context where Moroccan-Emirati relations, under the wise leadership of the two Heads of State , are experiencing a qualitative leap, thus allowing the cultural field to be in tune with other fields.
This Fair constitutes an opportunity for Moroccan publishers to promote their products and build relationships with publishers from other Arab and foreign countries, especially since this cultural event is considered one of the largest markets in the world. edition in the world, continued the minister.
On the sidelines of this visit, the Minister and the Director General of the Sharjah Book Authority held discussions, focused on examining joint action mechanisms to raise the level of cultural relations, support various initiatives, including in the field of cultural and creative industries that Morocco is establishing as an important project within the framework of the cultural economy.
Morocco’s program as guest of honor includes, among other things, meetings highlighting Morocco-United Arab Emirates cultural cooperation and the book industry in Morocco, as well as exchanges with eminent Moroccan intellectuals, including philosophers, writers, critics, academics as well as writers and poets.
Mounted at the Sharjah Expo Center, the pavilion allows the public to discover Moroccan heritage through conferences, plays, artistic exhibitions, round tables, as well as workshops for children on decoration and weaving. Around 4,000 titles from 25 Moroccan publishing houses are exhibited there.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Cultural Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good day, and thank you for joining us! Today, we’re diving into a fascinating topic—the international impact of cultural exhibitions, particularly the recent fair where Morocco was celebrated as the guest of honor. To discuss this, we have Dr. Fatima El Idrissi, a senior cultural studies expert who has extensively researched the influence of cultural heritage on national identity. Welcome, Dr. El Idrissi!
Dr. Fatima El Idrissi (FEI): Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss this important topic.
TNE: Let’s dive right in. The Moroccan pavilion at the recent fair seems to have showcased an incredible array of cultural artifacts, including heritage manuscripts and historical maps. Why do you think exhibitions like this are vital for countries like Morocco?
FEI: Exhibitions are essential as they provide a platform to present a country’s rich cultural heritage to the international community. For Morocco, showcasing its heritage and manuscripts helps to educate others about its history and diversifies the narrative around the nation’s identity. This not only strengthens national pride but also fosters global appreciation and understanding.
TNE: Absolutely! The Minister noted the careful selection of items in the pavilion, including works that highlight significant figures and cultural tributaries. How does this selection impact the perception of Moroccan culture?
FEI: The chosen items play a crucial role in defining Morocco’s cultural identity abroad. By highlighting significant figures and various cultural influences, the pavilion allows visitors to see Morocco as a dynamic and multifaceted society. It counters stereotypes and reveals the complexity of our heritage, highlighting the contributions of various communities throughout history.
TNE: That makes a lot of sense. The delegation included important figures like the Director General of the Sharjah Book Authority and the Moroccan Ambassador to the UAE. How does diplomatic presence enhance the significance of such cultural events?
FEI: The presence of diplomats and key cultural figures underscores the importance of cultural diplomacy. It bridges gaps between nations and emphasizes that culture is a powerful tool for dialogue and mutual understanding. When leaders engage in these events, it sends a message that cultural exchange is valued and nurtured, which can pave the way for future collaborations and partnerships.
TNE: Speaking of collaborations, the cultural heritage safeguarding initiatives, like the one dedicated to Rabat at this fair, are intriguing. How do such initiatives benefit both the local and international communities?
FEI: Initiatives like the Foundation for the Safeguarding of the Cultural Heritage of Rabat play a critical role in preserving history for future generations. They not only protect Morocco’s identity but also allow for international scholars and enthusiasts to engage with that heritage. This exchange fosters global heritage appreciation while ensuring that local narratives are told authentically.
TNE: Fascinating insights, Dr. El Idrissi. Before we wrap up, what do you think is the most important takeaway from Morocco being featured as the guest of honor?
FEI: The key takeaway is that cultural exchange is a two-way street. While Morocco gains visibility and appreciation, the world gains access to a rich cultural tapestry that enhances our collective understanding of global identities. It reinforces the idea that culture connects us all, and through events like these, we can celebrate our diversity while fostering a sense of unity.
TNE: Well said! Thank you once again for your valuable insights, Dr. Fatima El Idrissi. It has been a pleasure discussing the impact of cultural exhibitions and Morocco’s rich heritage with you.
FEI: The pleasure was mine! Thank you for having me, and I hope to see more cultural exchanges in the future!