Passing of Mohamed Benaïssa, former Minister of Foreign Affairs

Saturday 01 March 2025 - 10:06

By: Zahouani Ilham

Passing of Mohamed Benaïssa, former Minister of Foreign Affairs

Mohamed Benaïssa, former Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs and President of the Municipality of Asilah, passed away on Friday, February 28, after a prolonged battle with illness. His death marks the end of a distinguished career dedicated to culture, diplomacy, and the development of his hometown.

Born on January 3, 1937, Benaïssa played a key role in Morocco's political and cultural landscape. His journey took him from international institutions such as the United Nations, where he worked in New York and Addis Ababa, to positions of responsibility at the FAO in Rome and Ghana.

His political career began in 1977 when he entered Parliament. He later served as Minister of Culture from 1985 to 1992, before becoming Morocco’s Ambassador to Washington from 1993 to 1999. He was then appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1999 to 2007, under the governments of Abderrahmane El Youssoufi and Driss Jettou.

Beyond politics, Benaïssa maintained a strong connection with Asilah, serving multiple terms as its mayor and playing a pivotal role in promoting the city’s cultural influence. He was a driving force behind the Moussem of Asilah, an international cultural festival that has gained global recognition.

After weeks of hospitalization in a private clinic in Rabat, his health deteriorated, leading his family to bring him home, where he passed away.

Morocco mourns the loss of a statesman, diplomat, and advocate of cultural dialogue, whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations.