Senegal Celebrates Enduring Ties with Morocco at Vibrant Cultural Festival

Wednesday 10 January 2024 - 14:10

President Macky Sall lauded Morocco as Senegal’s “brother nation” during his address at the opening ceremony of the 12th Festival National des Arts et Cultures (FESNAC) in Fatick, Senegal. With the Moroccan Minister of Culture, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, present as the guest of honor, President Sall underscored the enduring bonds of friendship, spirituality, and economic partnership uniting the two countries.

“Our ties with the Kingdom of Morocco span politics, diplomacy, trade, and shared beliefs,” President Sall remarked. “This profound relationship with our brothers and sisters from the north has withstood the test of time and continues to resonate through generations.”

Conveying warm regards from King Mohammed VI, Minister Bensaid expressed the delight of Moroccans in joining their Senegalese counterparts for this splendid celebration of arts and culture.

The lively open-air festival showcased Sufi musicians from Morocco’s ancient city of Fez, delivering mesmerizing Gnaoua music that skillfully blended sounds from across North and West Africa. Their captivating performance earned cheers and applause from the enthralled crowd. In return, local Senegalese musicians reciprocated with stirring Mbalax rhythms and intricate Sabar drumming.

“Our shared cultural heritage serves as the lifeblood nourishing our special bond,” President Sall articulated to the audience. He highlighted Morocco’s support for Senegal's entry into the United Nations in 1960 as evidence of an enduring alliance not confined by borders or beliefs.

In addition to historical ties, Senegal and Morocco enjoy a thriving economic relationship. Bilateral trade has experienced consistent annual growth of over 20% for the past two decades, with Senegal emerging as Morocco’s primary trade partner in West Africa.

“With roots deeply embedded in the past and collaborative efforts expanding in the present, the future holds great promise for relations between our two nations,” President Sall concluded.