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Morocco World
14-05-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Morocco Inaugurates New Consulate Building in Montpellier
Doha – Morocco inaugurated its new consulate building in Montpellier on Monday. The ceremony took place in the presence of Morocco's Ambassador to France Samira Sitail, Montpellier Mayor Michaël Delafosse, and Hérault Prefect François-Xavier Lauch. The new facility spans 850 square meters across three floors. It includes twenty offices, two meeting rooms, archive spaces, reception areas, and parking facilities accessible to people with reduced mobility. The building was acquired in November 2024 and has since gone through major renovations. The consulate serves approximately 200,000 Moroccan citizens residing in six southern French departments. These include Hérault, Gard, Ardèche, Aveyron, Pyrénées-Orientales, and Lozère. About 160 people visit the consulate daily. 'This building is a modern proximity tool, designed to welcome our citizens with dignity and strengthen human, cultural, and economic ties with France, in accordance with Royal Guidelines,' said Ambassador Sitail during the ceremony. The new premises feature Moroccan architectural elements on the façade. The interior decoration reflects Morocco's cultural identity, creating a functional, yet warm environment. Consul General Soumia Bouhamidi described the building as embodying 'the soul of Morocco.' She called it 'a bridge between shores, a hand extended to all those who carry love for our Morocco in their hearts.' The inauguration comes just two weeks after Montpellier Mayor Delafosse's official visit to Morocco. During his trip, he met with Foreign Affairs Minister Nasser Bourita and Investment Minister Mohamed Zidane. He also led a delegation to Dakhla on April 26 to explore business opportunities in the southern region. In Dakhla, Delafosse and his team learned about major development projects and discussed a forthcoming cooperation agreement focusing on water sports, cultural exchange, and sustainable energy projects. The delegation toured the construction site of Dakhla Atlantic Port and the future site of MGH Energie, a company specializing in green hydrogen. At the inauguration ceremony, the mayor expressed his appreciation for Morocco's remarkable development dynamics and structural projects. The mayor said that the North African country is positioning itself as a 'key player' in strategic fields like renewable energies and green hydrogen, which are 'sources of inspiration' for Montpellier's public policies. The consulate's relocation from Figuerolles to Parc 2000 in La Paillade represents a 'qualitative leap' in services. 'The previous conditions were no longer favorable. We are raising the level of reception and services,' Ambassador Sitail noted. State representative Lauch also celebrated the Franco-Moroccan friendship, which 'lives, renews itself, and is built on constant exchanges and shared trust between our institutions.' He described the new consular building as 'a living bridge between two shores.' The Moroccan consulate in Montpellier is one of 17 Moroccan consular representations in France. It employs about 30 staff, including diplomats and local employees. The consulate is now located at 265 rue Maurice Béjart in Parc 2000 and is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The ceremony concluded with a reception featuring Moroccan flavors and traditional music. The event attracted over 200 guests, including CCI President André Deljarry, Sète Port President Philippe Malagola, and former Port President Jean-Claude Gayssot. This inauguration takes place amid improving relations between France and Morocco, particularly after France's recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over the Western Sahara. 'We call each other to develop projects. It's a stimulating relationship, a growing relationship,' added Lauch. According to local officials, Montpellier hosts approximately 4,000 Moroccan students out of the 28,000 Moroccan citizens in Hérault. Outside Paris, Montpellier is the top destination for Moroccan students in France. Read also: Western Sahara: France's AFD to Invest €150 Million in Morocco's Southern Provinces Tags: MontpellierMoroccan consulateMorocco France Relations
Maroc
02-05-2025
- Business
- Maroc
Grand Opening of Moroccan Pavilion at Paris Fair
His Majesty the King's Ambassador to France Samira Sitail inaugurated on Wednesday the Moroccan pavilion at the Paris Fair (April 30 - May 11), France's favorite shopping and festive event, where the Kingdom is guest of honor. On this occasion, Sitail, accompanied by Director of the "House of the Craftsman" Tarik Sadik, Paris Fair Director Steven Abajol, as well as the respective presidents of the Chambers of Crafts of the regions of Dakhla-Oued Eddahab, Guelmim-Oued Noun and Laayoune-Sakia El Hamra, Sidati Chaggaf, Farji Fakhri and Mustapha Benlimam, cut the ribbon symbolizing the official inauguration of the Moroccan pavilion. 'It's one of the most beautiful pavilions, if not the most beautiful today at this fair', Sitail told MAP, after touring the national pavilion. Morocco, she pointed out, is 'one of the few countries in the world to boast such a rich and diversified heritage, whether in terms of local produce, handicrafts, or its history'. The organizers of this year's Paris Fair are expecting a record number of 500,000 visitors, and are convinced that 'the Moroccan pavilion will be one of the most visited at this year's edition, with the longest exhibition period of twelve days at the Porte de Versailles exhibition center'. Morocco is occupying a 375 m² pavilion hosting some twenty exhibitors, as well as a concept store, representing different craft sectors, namely carpets, weaving, household linen, leather, clothing and jewelry. This festive atmosphere will be complemented by musical performances from the traditional Moroccan repertoire, along with culinary arts through workshops featuring authentic dishes and tasting sessions. Paris Fair is one of the most important commercial and consumer events in France, and has been held annually for over 120 years. More than 1,200 exhibitors take part, with nearly 3,500 brands spanning 6 halls over twelve days. MAP: 30 avril 2025
Morocco World
01-05-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Morocco Shines as Guest of Honor at Paris Fair with Artisanal Showcase
Doha – Morocco made a striking appearance as the guest of honor at the Foire de Paris (Paris Fair), France's favorite shopping and festive event, which opened on April 30 and runs until May 11. Samira Sitail, Morocco's Ambassador to France, inaugurated the Moroccan pavilion on Wednesday, cutting the ceremonial ribbon alongside Tarik Sadik, Director of the Maison de l'Artisan, and Steven Abajol, Director of the Foire de Paris. Among others attending were the presidents of the Chambers of Crafts from the regions of Dakhla-Oued Eddahab, Guelmim-Oued Noun, and Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra. 'It's one of the most beautiful pavilions, if not the most beautiful at this fair,' Sitail told MAP during her tour of the national pavilion, where she explored various spaces and interacted with exhibitors. She noted that Morocco is 'one of the few countries in the world with such rich and diverse heritage, whether in local products, crafts, or its history shaped by multiple influences.' The diplomat particularly mentioned the Amazigh (Berber) carpets displayed as unique pieces that showcase 'women's work, now fully valued throughout the different stands in the national pavilion.' From the art of caftan to zellige craftsmanship, and from the 'globally unique' argan tree exploitation to raphia crafts imported from Madagascar but transformed exclusively in Morocco, 'each product embodies inimitable expertise, rooted in the cultural and historical DNA of the Kingdom,' Sitail affirmed. The ambassador also praised the festive atmosphere surrounding the Moroccan pavilion, which she believes reflects both the 'substantial' improvement in Franco-Moroccan relations in recent months and 'the special place Morocco holds in the hearts of the French.' 'In 2024, the French were the largest contingent of foreign tourists in Morocco,' she said, adding that the North African country has become 'Africa's top tourist destination.' The 375-square-meter Moroccan pavilion hosts more than 20 exhibitors and a concept store representing various craft sectors, including carpets, weaving, household linens, leather goods, clothing, brassware, jewelry, cosmetics, decorative items, and thuya wood products. Read also: Macron Visits Moroccan Pavilion at Paris Book Festival Recognizing Morocco as Guest of Honor Tarik Sadik expressed his delight at Morocco's participation in this century-old event. 'We are happy to be present here at the Paris Fair, an event organized for more than 100 years,' he said. He explained that the Maison de l'Artisan's participation aligns with efforts by the State Secretariat for Crafts and Social Economy to promote the sector globally. 'Moroccan craftsmanship is gaining increasing recognition, and our artisans possess highly sought-after expertise,' he said. Sadik noted that this edition of the Paris Fair allows for the participation of 29 exhibitors representing different regions of Morocco with a wide variety of craft professions. Sidati Chaggaf, President of the Federation of Chambers of Crafts, voiced his 'great joy and pride' in participating in this international exhibition, which he described as a 'reference platform for exchanging experiences and exploring new perspectives in industry and innovation.' Thanks to King Mohammed VI's vision, Morocco today constitutes 'a point of convergence between deeply rooted craft traditions and promising forward-looking ambitions,' Chaggaf asserted. Moha Er-rich, Director of Heritage Preservation, Innovation and Promotion at the Ministry of Tourism, Crafts and Social Economy, stated that this edition 'showcases national heritage on French soil' and aims primarily to 'promote our craft products and raise Morocco's profile through its tangible and intangible heritage.' The rich and varied program includes live music performed by Moroccan artists, craft demonstration workshops, and a cooking show offering daily opportunities to discover Moroccan gastronomy through workshops preparing and tasting traditional Moroccan dishes. The Foire de Paris, one of France's most important commercial and public events, has been held annually for over 120 years. This fair sees the participation of more than 1,200 exhibitors with nearly 3,500 brands spread across 6 halls covering over 100,000 square meters for twelve days, with organizers expecting record attendance of up to 500,000 visitors this year.
Ya Biladi
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Ya Biladi
Morocco proudly unveils its pavilion as the guest of honor at the Paris Fair
Accompanied by Tarik Sadik, director of the Maison de l'Artisan, Steven Abajol, director of the Paris Fair, and the presidents of the Chambers of Crafts from the regions of Dakhla-Oued Eddahab, Guelmim-Oued Noun, and Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra — Sidati Chaggaf, Farji Fakhri, and Mustapha Benlimam, respectively — Ms. Sitail performed the traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the official opening of the Moroccan pavilion, the guest of honor at the 2024 edition of the Paris Fair (April 30 to May 11). In a statement to MAP, the ambassador praised the quality of Morocco's participation: «It's one of the most beautiful pavilions, if not the most beautiful at this fair», she stated after carefully touring the various spaces, during which she interacted with several exhibitors. Ms. Sitail highlighted the exceptional richness of Moroccan heritage, including local products, craftsmanship, and the diverse historical and cultural influences that shape the Kingdom. She showcased emblematic pieces, such as Berber rugs, unique works displayed at the pavilion, which reflect the value of female craftsmanship. Inauguration of the #Morocco?? pavilion, guest of honor at the @foiredeparis, by Ambassador Samira #Sitail with the Director of the Maison de L'Artisan, Tarik Sadik and the Director of the Paris Fair, Steven @StevenAbajoli. A true showcase of craftsmanship in… — Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in France ?? (@AmbaMarocFrance) April 30, 2025 The festive atmosphere surrounding the pavilion, she noted, illustrates the strengthening of Franco-Moroccan relations and the deep attachment the French have to the Kingdom. She also recalled that in 2024, French tourists formed the largest foreign contingent in Morocco, now the leading tourist destination in Africa. She explained that this dynamism stems from a combination of assets: unique architecture, contrasting geography, cultural diversity, age-old openness, and preserved ancestral heritage. Among the highlighted elements were the caftan, zellige, raffia work, and the exploitation of the argan tree, emblematic of southern Morocco. Ms. Sitail also indicated that the organizers expect a record attendance of 500,000 visitors, expressing confidence that the Moroccan pavilion will be one of the major attractions of this edition, the longest of the year at the Porte de Versailles exhibition center. A Showcase of Moroccan Craftsmanship For Tarik Sadik, participating in this centennial fair is part of the efforts of the State Secretariat in charge of Handicrafts and the Social and Solidarity Economy to promote craftsmanship internationally. He recalled the growing recognition of Moroccan know-how: «Our artisans possess highly sought-after skills», he emphasized, adding that this event also helps promote the image of the Kingdom and the momentum driven by King Mohammed VI. This year, the Moroccan pavilion, covering an area of 375 m², brings together 29 exhibitors from various regions of the country. It showcases a diversity of crafts: carpets, weaving, leather, home textiles, clothing, jewelry, metalwork, cosmetics, decoration, and thuya wood objects. Meanwhile, Moha Er-rich, director of heritage preservation, innovation, and promotion within the Ministry of Tourism, Handicrafts, and Social and Solidarity Economy, stressed the main objective of this participation: «To make Morocco shine through its tangible and intangible heritage». He highlighted the central role of the Maison de l'Artisan, the operational arm of the State Secretariat, in this international valorization effort. Tradition and Innovation at the Heart of Moroccan Participation Sidati Chaggaf, President of the Federation of Craft Chambers and the region of Dakhla-Oued Eddahab, expressed his pride in representing the Kingdom at this international fair, which he described as a platform for exchange and innovation. He asserted that Morocco's presence reflects the country's commitment to a global dynamic integrating digital transformation, sustainability, and innovation. Under the guidance of His Majesty the King, he recalled, Morocco is now positioned as a bridge between ancestral craftsmanship and forward-looking perspectives. «The future of craftsmanship is built on cooperation, openness, and knowledge sharing», he declared. The Moroccan pavilion offers a varied program of activities highlighting the living heritage, hospitality, and culinary richness of the Kingdom. Visitors are welcomed in an atmosphere reflecting the colors of Morocco, with concerts by Moroccan artists, craft demonstrations, Moroccan cooking workshops, and daily tastings of traditional dishes. Organized for over 120 years, the Paris Fair is one of the largest commercial events in Europe, bringing together more than 1,200 exhibitors and 3,500 brands across a 100,000 m² area spread over six halls.
