“Morocco has a policy resolutely oriented towards African construction and the rest of Africa, more particularly towards the South,” added the Senegalese intellectual in an interview with MAP, on the sidelines of the 2nd edition of the Book Festival African from Marrakech (February 8 to 11), explaining that “this policy led by His Majesty King Mohammed VI is a continuation of that of the late HM Hassan II.”
“I am happy to see that Morocco has a policy resolutely oriented towards African construction, and it seems to me that on the intellectual and creative level, the Marrakech African Book Festival is a symbol of this approach,” said -he said.
He added that Morocco today truly plays its role as a “crossroads”, being both a Mediterranean country but also strongly rooted in the Continent.
“This is reflected in several ways, in particular by a significant economic presence of Morocco in several African countries,” he continued, testifying as a Senegalese intellectual to this strong presence of the Kingdom in Senegal, a presence, among others , spiritual, with such dense and centuries-old exchanges.
It is also a “very dynamic” presence oriented towards the future with, for example, a significant establishment of Moroccan banking and finance in Senegal, noted Mr. Diagne, highlighting , in this sense, the unwavering commitment and constant determination of Morocco to play its role in African construction and in the new common market of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
On another note, Mr. Souleymane Bachir Diagne expressed his joy at participating in the 2nd edition of FLAM, describing this intellectual event as “magnificent” and “singular”.
After underlining the importance and great significance of the name that this Festival bears as well as the richness of its program, he highlighted the singularity of the place where this event is held, namely Marrakech as the gateway to the desert and land meeting between Africans.
“Marrakech remains this space of creativity, reflection and African thought par excellence. The city tells us something not only about the present of our Continent but also about its future,” he continued, estimating that “ the future of Africa will be built in the internal horizontal relations that we will establish between us.”
“This is the way, in a way, in which we are going to rejoin Africa and bring the Continent back to this unity which was fragmented by colonialism. It is this way which will be the direction to take for development of our Continent”, he concluded.
A true meeting bringing together writers, thinkers and intellectuals from Africa, its diasporas and its descendants, the FLAM was founded by Mahi Binebine (writer and visual artist), Fatimata Wane-Sagna (journalist), Hanane Essaydi (academic) and Younès Ajarraï (cultural entrepreneur).
Supported by the We Art Africains association, FLAM aims to be an eloquent celebration of African literature and culture.
Open to all audiences and all ages, this festival, which continues until February 11 in the Ocher City, is free to access, in all reception sites. The aim is to bring culture and art closer to both enthusiasts and those who feel distant from it.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Expert Souleymane Bachir Diagne
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Mr. Diagne. It’s a pleasure to have you here at the 2nd edition of the Marrakech African Book Festival. You recently spoke about Morocco’s commitment to African construction. Can you elaborate on what this means in a contemporary context?
Souleymane Bachir Diagne: Thank you for having me. Morocco’s policy towards African construction is not just a governmental initiative; it’s a broader vision that is deeply rooted in the historical and cultural exchanges that have shaped the continent. His Majesty King Mohammed VI’s leadership reflects a continuity from the past, building on the foundations established by the late HM Hassan II. This approach affirms Morocco’s identity as a significant player in the African narrative.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned Morocco being a ”crossroads.” How does this geographical and cultural position enhance its role within Africa?
Souleymane Bachir Diagne: Morocco occupies a unique position geographically, bridging the Mediterranean and the African continent. This dual identity allows it to act as a conduit for ideas, culture, and trade. Morocco’s active economic presence in various African nations, including Senegal, is a testament to this. The country’s engagements aren’t merely transactional; they are layered with historical depth and meaningful exchange on spiritual and cultural levels.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like the economic ties between Morocco and countries like Senegal are quite significant. Can you share your thoughts on this dynamic?
Souleymane Bachir Diagne: Absolutely! Morocco has established a very dynamic presence in Senegal, particularly in banking and finance. This isn’t just about business; it’s about creating sustainable partnerships that foster mutual growth. There’s a strong sense of Moroccan identity that resonates with many Senegalese people, rooted in centuries-old exchanges that have shaped our societies.
Time.news Editor: That’s fascinating. With the recent establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), what role do you foresee Morocco playing in this new economic landscape?
Souleymane Bachir Diagne: Morocco is poised to be an integral part of the AfCFTA. Its commitment to fostering economic ties and its substantial investments in African economies position it as a leader in this initiative. The AfCFTA is not just a project for trade; it’s about creating a unified market that promotes growth, diversification, and resilience across Africa. Morocco’s unwavering determination to contribute to this vision is commendable.
Time.news Editor: The Marrakech African Book Festival seems to be a significant event within this context. How do you view its role in fostering intellectual and creative exchanges?
Souleymane Bachir Diagne: The festival is remarkable! It embodies the spirit of African construction through literature and intellectual dialogue. Events like these are vital for nurturing creativity, sharing ideas, and celebrating our diverse cultures. They remind us that intellectual and artistic endeavors can be powerful vehicles for change and unity across the continent. It’s a beautiful platform that highlights Morocco’s commitment to these values.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Mr. Diagne, for sharing your insights. Your perspective on Morocco’s role in African construction is enlightening, and we look forward to seeing how these initiatives develop and strengthen ties across the continent.
Souleymane Bachir Diagne: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure discussing these important themes, and I am optimistic about the future of Africa united through collaboration and shared vision.