Culture strengthens Swiss-Moroccan cooperation

Sunday 25 May 2025 - 14:37

By: Zahouani Ilham

Culture strengthens Swiss-Moroccan cooperation

Swiss Ambassador to Morocco, Valentin Zellweger, highlighted the vital role of culture as a driving force for multi-sectoral cooperation between Morocco and Switzerland. Speaking during the 28th Fez Festival of World Sacred Music, he described the event as a key moment to showcase the strong and historic cultural bonds linking both nations.

And in his statement, Zellweger underlined the “central and structural” place of culture in the bilateral relationship, emphasizing that ties between the two countries are well-established across political, economic, and social spheres. He also pointed to the significant Moroccan community in Switzerland as living evidence of this enduring connection.

The ambassador described culture as a “universal language” and praised the Fez Festival as a clear example of how it fosters unity. He noted the participation of the Swiss Renaissance ensemble “Zenaida,” aligning with this year’s festival theme, Emanations, and stressed the “dynamic and long-standing” cultural cooperation between Morocco and Switzerland.

Zellweger outlined how this cooperation materializes through contributions to major events like the Fez Festival, along with Morocco’s cultural engagement in Switzerland, joint exhibitions, and artist exchanges. He described it as a “network of platforms” that enrich the ongoing cultural dialogue between both countries.

On the theme Emanations, Zellweger remarked that a festival of sacred music provides intellectual depth and cultural meaning to the concept.

Abdel Rafie Zouitine, president of the Spirit of Fez Foundation, welcomed Switzerland’s participation, particularly noting the performance of the renowned Basel School, which presented Baroque music. He emphasized that the festival is not only a space for cultural exchange but also an avenue for economic cooperation.

Zouitine further expressed his belief that cultural initiatives carry significant financial and developmental potential and voiced hope for an even stronger Swiss presence in future editions.

Organizers concluded that Switzerland’s involvement confirms the shared commitment of both nations to deepen cultural ties and explore broader cooperation opportunities. Culture, they affirmed, forms a solid foundation for mutually beneficial partnerships.