French Culture Minister Dati deepens Morocco partnership with landmark Southern Provinces visit
In a significant diplomatic development, French Minister of Culture Rachida Dati has characterized her visit to Morocco's Southern Provinces as a milestone in Franco-Moroccan relations, marking the first time a Western minister has traveled to this region. During an interview on Morocco's 2M television channel, Dati emphasized that this visit represents more than just a new chapter in bilateral relations, but rather "a new book that France and Morocco will write together."
Dati underscored Morocco's position as a strategic partner for both France and the European Union, highlighting collaboration across multiple sectors including agriculture, culture, economy, defense, and renewable energy. She particularly noted Morocco's leadership in renewable energy development, attributing this achievement to King Mohammed VI's vision.
The cultural dimension of this renewed cooperation took center stage during Dati's tour of the Southern Provinces. In Tarfaya, she highlighted the shared historical significance of the location where Antoine Saint-Exupéry wrote his first work "Southern Mail" while serving as the local aerodrome chief. A key moment of her visit was the establishment of an Alliance Française branch in Laâyoune, which aims to promote French language and culture while serving as a resource center for local residents and all regions of Morocco.
In Dakhla, Dati inaugurated a regional annexe of the Higher Institute of Audiovisual and Cinema Professions (ISMAC), designed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in film production and exchanges through training programs, artist residencies, and shared expertise.
The minister also discussed Morocco's role as guest of honor at the upcoming Paris Book Festival (April 11-13), which will showcase a new generation of Moroccan writers to French audiences. She expressed enthusiasm about introducing French readers to Morocco's renowned publishing industry and contemporary authors.
Looking ahead to 2030, Dati praised the joint World Cup hosting arrangement between Morocco, Portugal, and Spain as an exceptional cultural showcase. She emphasized Morocco's comprehensive cultural richness, noting the country's excellence across all artistic domains and its significant cultural heritage.
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