Latest news with #InternationalBookandPublishingFair
Morocco World
19-06-2025
- Politics
- Morocco World
Morocco Marks the 55th Birthday of Prince Moulay Rachid
Rabat – On Friday, the Moroccan Royal Family and the Moroccan people will joyfully commemorate the 55th birthday of Prince Moulay Rachid, an occasion that unites the nation in celebration and sincere well wishes for King Mohammed VI, Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan, Prince Moulay Rachid, and the entire royal family. Born on June 20, 1970, in Rabat, Prince Moulay Rachid pursued his academic path with distinction. In May 1993, he earned a degree in public law with a specialization in internal administration, along with a diploma in comparative law from the Faculty of Legal, Economic, and Social Sciences in Rabat, both with honors. Three years later, in June 1996, he obtained his second graduate degree in international relations with high distinction. On May 18, 2001, he earned a PhD in law from the University of Bordeaux, receiving the highest honors and a special commendation for publication for his dissertation titled 'The Organization of the Islamic Conference: A Study of a Specialized International Institution'. Prince Moulay Rachid has long shown a deep commitment to cultural, social, and sporting life in Morocco. Since April 1997, he has presided over the Royal Moroccan Shooting Federation, and in 2018, he took the helm of the Royal Moroccan Golf Federation. He also leads the Hassan II Golf Trophy Association and the Marrakech International Film Festival Foundation. Over the years, he has represented the King at key national and international events and chaired major cultural and sporting ceremonies. Recently, on June 17, he chaired the extraordinary general assembly of the Royal Moroccan Golf Federation. In April, he inaugurated the 30th edition of the International Book and Publishing Fair in Rabat and visited the Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss II in Fez during a traditional ceremony for the royal family's youngest members. Earlier this year, in February, Prince Moulay Rachid presided over a royal dinner at the Chellah archaeological site and later awarded the winners of the Hassan II Golf Trophy and the Lalla Meryem Cup. In December 2024, he represented the King at the reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris and attended a state dinner hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron. In November, he presided over the royal dinner at the official opening of the Marrakech International Film Festival. A few weeks prior, he joined the royal family in welcoming President Macron to Morocco and attended the signing of major bilateral agreements. The celebration of Prince Moulay Rachid's 55th birthday is a moment of national unity and heartfelt allegiance to the monarchy an enduring expression of Morocco's loyalty and shared joy. Tags: BirthdayMoroccan Royal FamilyPrince Moulay Rachid
Mid East Info
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
Three Stops, Thousands of Titles: Menassah Champions UAE Publishing at Rabat, Sharjah & Abu Dhabi
Emirati publications continue to secure a prominent place among leading literary works at local and regional book fairs, as Menassah Distribution Company participates in three major cultural events across Rabat, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi throughout April and May 2025. With each event, the company reaffirms its mission to promote knowledge and strengthen the UAE's cultural presence on renowned international platforms. Through these participations, 'Menassah' continues to play a pioneering role in promoting Emirati creative output and bringing it to wider audiences of readers and intellectuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. By presenting thousands of titles that reflect the richness and diversity of UAE literature, the company opens new horizons for Emirati publishers, reinforcing the country's position as a dynamic cultural hub and supporting its creative economy. At the Rabat International Book Fair: From 17 to 27 April 2025, 'Menassah' Distribution Company made a notable impact through its participation in the 30th edition of the International Book and Publishing Fair in Rabat – one of the most prominent literary events in Morocco. The company introduced Moroccan readers to a wide selection of titles published by 96 Emirati publishers, showcasing 1,069 titles and a total of 3,762 books. This participation fortified the strong cultural exchange between Morocco and the UAE, especially with the Sharjah Emirate being hosted as the Guest of Honour at this year's edition — a tribute to its distinguished cultural and intellectual stature on the international stage. Enriching the World of Childhood at the Sharjah Children's Reading Festival From 23 April to 4 May 2025, 'Menassah' Distribution Company is set to bring a rich literary experience to young readers and their families during the Sharjah Children's Reading Festival — one of the region's largest children's book fairs. The company is presenting 592 titles published by 60 Emirati publishers, with a total of 3,840 books. This participation is distinguished by a collaboration between the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) and 'Menassah' Distribution Company in hosting a dedicated pavilion celebrating the winning titles of the International Award for Arabic Children's Literature, presented by Etisalat as part of the UAEBBY's national programme. The pavilion serves as an inspiring space for fans of children's literature, reflecting the company's commitment to supporting initiatives that foster a culture of reading among younger generations. A Distinguished Presence at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair: 'Menassah' concludes this cultural journey in Abu Dhabi, where it is participating in the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair from 26 April to 5 May 2025 — a global platform for the publishing industry and cultural exchange. The company is showcasing 641 titles from 51 Emirati publishers, with a total of 4,086 books, underscoring its commitment to supporting the UAE's cultural movement and expanding its reach to readers and publishing professionals around the world. The joint pavilion with the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) features a curated selection of titles that have won the International Award for Arabic Children's Literature presented by Etisalat. This space serves as a showcase of Emirati literary excellence. A Firm Commitment: Through its diverse strategic participations, 'Menassah' reaffirms its steadfast commitment to solidifying the presence of Emirati books at major cultural events, supporting efforts to promote national culture, and expanding avenues of collaboration with regional and international publishing houses and cultural institutions — all in pursuit of reinforcing the UAE's position as a leading hub in the field of publishing and knowledge production.
Ya Biladi
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Ya Biladi
Morocco Book Fair 2025 : More than 403,000 visitors and a 26% rise
The 30th edition of the International Book and Publishing Fair (SIEL 2025), which concluded on Sunday, attracted more than 403,000 visitors, marking a 26% increase compared to last year. In a statement, the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication noted that the event, held from April 18 to 27, brought together 756 exhibitors from 51 countries, offering nearly 100,000 titles. This edition placed a special spotlight on the Emirate of Sharjah (United Arab Emirates) and Moroccan writers from around the world. It further cemented SIEL's status as a showcase of Moroccan literary dynamism while positioning Rabat as a leading cultural destination, ahead of its designation as the World Book Capital in 2026. The Council of the Moroccan Community Abroad (CCME) praised the event's rich program, which featured more than sixty activities and over 170 guests from Morocco and 16 countries where Moroccan expatriate authors live. Across the SIEL spaces and beyond, including at a joint stand with the Ministry, these gatherings paid tribute to key figures in immigration literature, such as Abdellah Bounfour, Lalla Khiti Amina Benhachem Alaoui, Ahmed Ghazali, and Edmond Amran El Maleh, according to a statement. The Council also highlighted the special attention given to writer Driss Chraïbi, whose centenary will be celebrated in 2026. Other highlights included an exhibition featuring fourteen Moroccan photographers from around the world, screenings of ten pioneering films on Moroccan immigration, a multilingual poetry evening in Arabic, Amazigh, French, English, Italian, and Spanish with eleven poets, four philosophical roundtables, and twenty discussions around recently published novels and essays focusing on immigration themes. In addition, an immigration-themed bookstore offered more than 600 works showcasing the richness of Moroccan voices worldwide, including twenty new publications co-published by the CCME with Moroccan publishers. The Council also welcomed the launch of a new translation program, initiated by the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication, aimed at translating the literary works of Moroccans around the world into Arabic.
Morocco World
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Morocco World
CNDH Pavilion Wraps Up Successful 30th Book Fair Participation
Rabat – Morocco's National Council for Human Rights (CNDH) wrapped up its activities at the 30th edition of the International Book and Publishing Fair today. Over ten days, the pavilion became a space for discussions, workshops, and Moroccan cultural expressions that captivated thousands of visitors. The fair brought together 250 children from across Morocco's 12 regions, along with 100 writers, human rights advocates, and cultural figures from both Morocco and abroad. These participants engaged in 70 activities spread across five specialized spaces designed for open dialogue and cultural exchange. 'We express our gratitude to the children, the activists, and the visitors for their incredible engagement with our daily programming,' said the President of the CNDH in a press statement. 'For ten days, we all celebrated the richness of Moroccan culture and its profound role in promoting human rights and development.' The CNDH chose to focus on Morocco's cultural diversity this year, shining a light from the country's Arab-Islamic, Amazigh, Sahrawi, Jewish, Mediterranean, and African influences. 'We believe these cultural expressions can strengthen social cohesion and openness, while reflecting respect for identity, dignity, and collective memory,' the CNDH president continued. The National Council's participation in open national events, such as the book fair, has always aimed to foster a spontaneous interaction with visitors, particularly children, parents, and families, on important human rights topics. 'For us, the fair was a chance to further promote a culture of human rights and freedoms,' Bouayach noted. 'We were pleased with the insightful questions, suggestions, and the growing awareness around pressing issues.' The pavilion's programming included a wide range of cultural and educational activities. From the iconic character Hadidan, which introduced visitors to Morocco's cultural heritage, to performances by children who expressed their views on rights and the right to culture through stories, poetry, theater, music, and humor. Discussions also focused on topics such as the right to the city and the universality of human rights, illustrating the power of culture in advancing these causes. The CNDH pavilion hosted more than 30 workshops for children, alongside 11 thought-provoking seminars on subjects like rock heritage, writing in prisons, cinema and human rights, and the role of culture in advancing rights. These seminars also explored the creative industries, the value of heritage, cultural diversity, public policies in the cultural sector, and the role of media in promoting human rights. In total, the pavilion served as a lively platform for more than 70 diverse activities. In keeping with its inclusive approach, the CNDH ensured the pavilion was accessible to all. Sign language interpretation was provided for all seminars and meetings, pathways were designed for the blind and visually impaired, and facilities were tailored to accommodate everyone. All activities were broadcast live, making them accessible to a wider audience. 'We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated and contributed to the success of our pavilion,' said Bouayach. The National Council for Human Rights looks forward to continuing its advocacy and fostering a culture of freedom and rights at the 31st edition of the fair. With more than 775 exhibitors representing 51 countries, this landmark edition of SIEL placed Rabat at the forefront of international literary exchange. Tags: CNDHhuman rightsmorocco CNDHSIELSIEL 2025
Morocco World
24-04-2025
- Politics
- Morocco World
Morocco Strengthens Legal Protections for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Rabat – In a symposium held on Wednesday, April 23, as part of the 30th edition of the International Book and Publishing Fair (SIEL), Morocco shed light on its ongoing efforts to strengthen legal protections for the blind and visually impaired, within the justice system and in penitentiary institutions. Organized by the Alaouite Organization for the Promotion of the Blind in Morocco (OAPAM), under the presidency of Princess Lamia Essolh, the event brought together legal experts and human rights advocates and served as a platform to review the country's progress in enacting laws and implementing institutional measures that promote equality and access to justice for individuals with visual impairments. Bilal Driouch, a magistrate with the public prosecutor's office and head of the civil affairs monitoring unit, stressed that people with disabilities must enjoy the same economic and social rights as all citizens, including unimpeded access to justice. He explained in his remarks at the gathering that Morocco's legal safeguards are rooted in the Moroccan constitution, national legislation, and Royal speeches and messages, all of which reflect a commitment to inclusive legal frameworks. Driouch also cited the country's ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol as an essential part of aligning Morocco's legal system with international human rights standards. He pointed to a growing number of court rulings that reinforce the legal rights of the blind and visually impaired, along with initiatives by the public prosecutor's office aimed at easing their access to judicial services. Addressing the situation in the country's prisons, Sanaa Alaoui from the General Delegation for Penitentiary Administration and Reintegration presented a detailed overview of policies supporting detainees with disabilities. She revealed that 18 visually impaired individuals are currently incarcerated in Morocco and outlined the state's efforts to ensure their dignity and access to appropriate services. Alaoui noted that the framework governing their treatment draws from constitutional values, Royal directives, and legislative provisions, complemented by government policies on disability. She declared the availability of specialized medical care, inclusive rehabilitation programs, and support for reintegration, all delivered through coordinated efforts between sectors. The symposium also featured insights from Bouchra El Amraoui of the National Human Rights Council (CNDH), who discussed the international legal principles protecting the rights of people with visual impairments. She talked about the importance of equality before the law, non-discrimination in judicial procedures, and the necessity of providing reasonable accommodations. El Amraoui stressed that visually impaired individuals must be empowered to make their own legal decisions, such as signing official documents and initiating legal actions. She called for stronger mechanisms to support decision-making and clear communication to help individuals navigate legal procedures effectively. The event is part of OAPAM's broader commitment to defending the rights of people with disabilities and addressing the specific challenges faced by the blind and visually impaired in judicial and penitentiary settings. The organization aims to continue working on practical proposals to improve their status within Morocco's legal system and elevate the accessibility barriers to the barriers faced by the visually impaired in accessing justice. The 30th edition of the International Book and Publishing Fair (SIEL), is currently underway in Rabat, running from April 17 to 27. Held at the Espace OLM Souissi under the patronage of King Mohammed VI, this year's event brings together over 775 exhibitors from 51 countries, offering more than 100,000 titles to visitors.
