The two postage stamps reproduce two artistic works symbolizing the historical ties that unite the two countries.
On the Moroccan side, the first work represents an illustration of the Sqala of the port of essaouira, an 18th century monument, founded by Sultan Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah, signatory of the peace treaty in 1774. This site is known to be an element key to the defensive architecture of the medina of Essaouira, classified as universal heritage by UNESCO since 2001.
The second work, on the Portuguese side, illustrates Commerce Square in Lisbon, an emblematic site once constituting the city’s gateway for maritime trade. It houses the equestrian statue of King Joseph I, also signatory of the peace Treaty in 1774 with sultan Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah.
During a ceremony organized on this occasion, the Ambassador of the Portuguese republic to Morocco, Carlos Pereira Marques, indicated that this joint issue of postage stamps, in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Peace Treaty and the 30th anniversary of the Treaty of Friendship, embodies the depth of historical ties based on friendship and trust that the two countries have cultivated and preserved over the years, adding that “the illustrations appearing on the two stamps where inspired by the depth of historical relations between Morocco and Portugal”.
For his part, the Director General of the Barid Al-Maghreb Group, Amin Benjelloun Touimi, highlighted the commitment of the two countries to peace, noting that Morocco and Portugal are linked by deep relations. He added that the launch of the two stamps, which are of great artistic value, aims to preserve the heritage of the past in order to transmit it to future generations.
For his part, the director of European affairs at the Ministry of African Cooperation affairs and Moroccans Residing Abroad, Redouane Adghoghi, indicated that the celebration of the 250 years of the Peace Treaty testifies to the solidity of the relations uniting the two States, noting that these relations, marked by a constant dynamic, are expected to be further strengthened, particularly with the organization in 2030 of the joint World Cup between Morocco, portugal and Spain.
This issue of postage stamps, launched and put into circulation on the same day in Morocco and Portugal, aims to enrich the series of joint issues carried out with other countries, including the very latest issued respectively in 2024 with Romania and the Sultanate of Oman, in 2022 with Serbia, in 2021 respectively with the Dominican republic and Tunisia, and many other joint philatelic achievements, including those issued with Monaco in 2014, Ukraine in 2013, Qatar in 2012, Belgium and France in 2001 and the very first with the USA in 1987.
What historical events are commemorated by the newly issued postage stamps from Morocco and Portugal?
Engaging Interview: Celebrating Historical Ties through Philately
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today. To start, can you explain the importance of the newly issued postage stamps by Morocco and Portugal?
Expert: Thank you for having me. The issuance of these commemorative postage stamps is a remarkable celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Peace Treaty between Morocco and Portugal, alongside the 30th anniversary of the Treaty of Friendship. The stamps showcase artistic works that symbolize the deep historical ties between the two nations, reinforcing the sentiments of friendship and trust that have been cultivated over the years.
Interviewer: The stamps feature key historical monuments, correct? Can you tell us more about these monuments and their importance?
Expert: Absolutely! On the Moroccan stamp, we see the Sqala of the port of Essaouira, founded by Sultan Sidi Mohammed ben Abdellah in the 18th century. This site is not only a stunning representation of Moroccan architecture but also a UNESCO World Heritage site, underscoring its significance as a cornerstone of Essaouira’s defensive architecture. On the Portuguese side,the stamp illustrates Commerce Square in Lisbon,which has served as an emblematic gateway for maritime trade and honors King Joseph I,who also signed the Peace Treaty. Both monuments embody the long-standing cultural and economic interactions between the two countries.
Interviewer: The ambassador of Portugal to Morocco emphasized the importance of these stamps as a symbol of friendship. How do you see this initiative impacting diplomatic relations going forward?
Expert: This initiative is a powerful testament to the enduring diplomatic relations between Morocco and Portugal. it demonstrates a commitment to not only preserving but also celebrating shared historical narratives. With future events such as the joint World Cup in 2030 involving Morocco, Portugal, and Spain, we can expect this relationship to blossom further, enhancing collaboration across various sectors, including tourism and cultural exchange.
Interviewer: What are some industry insights around philately in the context of international relations?
Expert: Philately, particularly the issuance of commemorative stamps, plays a vital role in international relations. It’s a soft power tool that allows countries to communicate shared narratives and values to both domestic and international audiences. This stamp issuance is part of a broader trend where countries collaborate on similar initiatives. As an example, Morocco has launched multiple joint issues, showcasing its commitment to global partnerships.
Interviewer: what practical advice would you give to our readers who might be interested in collecting these stamps or exploring philotely as a hobby?
Expert: Collecting stamps can be a deeply rewarding hobby that connects collectors to history, art, and culture. For those looking to start, I recommend focusing on commemorative issues like these, as they often carry interesting stories. Joining philatelic societies, engaging in forums, and attending stamp exhibitions can also considerably enhance the collecting experience.Plus, these stamps offer a unique glimpse into a nation’s heritage and its international relations.
Interviewer: Thank you for the insightful discussion! It’s clear that these postage stamps are not just items of commemoration,but important symbols of historical ties and collaboration.
Expert: Thank you for having me. I look forward to seeing how these stamps will inspire future generations to explore the rich histories of both Morocco and Portugal.