Latest news with #ValentinZellweger
Ya Biladi
3 days ago
- Business
- Ya Biladi
Morocco's customs authority launches AI-driven risk analysis project
The Customs and Indirect Tax Administration (ADII) recently announced the launch of a project, in partnership with the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), aimed at integrating artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into customs risk analysis and management processes. Aligned with ADII's strategic plan through 2028, this initiative focuses on targeting and predictive analysis as part of an advanced digitalization effort to enhance customs control efficiency and facilitate lawful trade, according to an official statement. At the project's launch ceremony, presided over by ADII Director General Abdellatif Amrani, participants discussed key strategic issues related to the use of big data, AI, and machine learning in customs risk management. They also reviewed ongoing digital transformation projects led by ADII and explored how these efforts will be consolidated within the new initiative. In this context, a first technical mission led by international experts accredited by the WCO took place at ADII headquarters from May 19 to 23. This mission assessed current progress in automated data processing and risk targeting, laying the groundwork for a structured action plan to guide the project's next phases. The ADII welcomed this trilateral cooperation, viewing it as recognition of its commitment to building an intelligent, proactive, and forward-looking customs system, the statement emphasized. The launch event was notably attended by the Swiss Ambassador to Morocco, Valentin Zellweger, along with senior officials from the WCO and ADII.
Morocco World
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Morocco World
From Basel to Fez: Swiss Ambassador's Ode to Cultural Kinship Through Sacred Music
Fez – In the historic city of Fez, where ancient medina walls whisper centuries of cultural exchange, Swiss Ambassador to Morocco Valentin Zellweger found himself particularly moved during the 28th edition of the Fez World Sacred Music Festival. As the crystalline harmonies of Renaissance polyphony filled the air, the ambassador saw more than just a musical performance – he witnessed the living embodiment of cultural diplomacy. In an exclusive interview at the 28th edition of the Fez World Sacred Music Festival, Ambassador Zellweger reflected on the deep historical ties between the two countries. 'Well, first of all, it's an old relationship, if I may say,' he began. 'It's more than 100 years old and it's getting better and better. I would say today it's a very close friendship. We have a lot of exchanges and a lot of common interests. So it's a very positive view of our bilateral relations.' The ambassador noted the unique role of cultural exchange in strengthening international connections. 'Well, you know, culture is a very important ingredient. Of course, our relations are commercial, economic, they are political, they are social. There are many Moroccans living in Switzerland and culture is the one thing that glues everything together,' Zellweger explained. He elaborated on the power of cultural expression: 'And in culture, you can bring things to. You can express things that I think are difficult to be said or expressed in other ways. So culture is a very important ingredient for our relationship.' Of Switzerland's participation in the festival, Zellweger shared: 'I give you the example of this evening's concert. The topic or the theme of this festival is the Renaissance. And there will be a Swiss group from a very prestigious musical school singing songs from the Renaissance. So it will be the Swiss perspective on the topic chosen by the organizers of this festival.' Drawing parallels between the two countries, the ambassador noted: 'I see a fundamental similarity between Morocco and Switzerland. Morocco is at the crossroads of cultures, of religions, also geographically speaking. And the same goes for Switzerland. Although we're at the heart of Europe, we are composed of a German part of our culture, a French part, an Italian part. And I think what unites Morocco and Switzerland is this sense of finding an equilibrium.' With visible enthusiasm, Zellweger shared his personal connection to the event. 'Am I excited?' he asked. 'Of course I'm excited. No, this is a fantastic opportunity and for me it's a particular pleasure. The musicians, the school that will be present this evening since it is my hometown represented tonight.' The ambassador's personal connection to the performance added a special dimension to the evening. The performing ensemble, Zenaida, hails from Basel's prestigious Schola Cantorum Basiliensis – Zellweger's hometown. The young but accomplished group, formed just last year by international students in the Advanced Vocal Ensemble Studies (AVES) program, brought a carefully curated selection of Franco-Flemish sacred music to Moroccan audiences. Zenaida's program featured masterworks by Renaissance composers Josquin Desprez and Pierre de la Rue, including Desprez's contemplative 'Gaude virgo' and La Rue's majestic 'Credo (Missa cum jocunditate).' The ensemble's innovative approach to these centuries-old compositions – blending traditional Gregorian influences with fresh polyphonic interpretations – created a musical dialogue that transcended time and geography. From Swiss concert halls to Moroccan nights Though newly formed, Zenaida has already established itself as a rising star in early music circles. Their emotional debut performance of 'Lamentation' at the Erasmus Klingt Festival under Björn Schmelzer's direction showcased their ability to breathe new life into ancient musical forms. The ambassador's remarks at the Fez World Sacred Music Festival point to the bond between Morocco and Switzerland. As the two countries celebrate over a century of diplomatic relations, cultural exchanges like this festival performance prove that their partnership is evolving beyond traditional political and economic ties into something deeper and more resonant. The presence of Swiss musicians in Fez, interpreting Renaissance melodies for Moroccan audiences, demonstrates how culture serves as a dynamic bridge between the two countries. Just as Morocco thrives at the crossroads of civilizations and Switzerland harmonizes its multilingual heritage, their collaboration at this festival reflects a shared commitment to dialogue, understanding, and mutual appreciation. Initiatives like the Fez Sacred Music Festival reinforce this connection with each passing year, ensuring that the relationship between Morocco and Switzerland does not merely endure, but flourishes.
Morocco World
14-02-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Morocco, Switzerland Launch Intellectual Property Cooperation Project
Rabat – Morocco and Switzerland launched the 'Swiss PartnershIP Morocco' project today in Casablanca to improve the north African country's legal framework for protecting intellectual and industrial property. Morocco's Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, and Switzerland's Ambassador to Morocco, Valentin Zellweger, attended the event. The project has a budget of MAD 17.2 million and will run for four years. It seeks to help Moroccan businesses and creators better protect and use their intellectual property rights, including intangible assets. It also focuses on raising awareness among stakeholders about the importance of intellectual property and ensuring better protection and promotion of innovation. The Swiss PartnershIP Morocco project is funded by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO). It will be implemented by the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (IPI) in partnership with the Moroccan Office of Industrial and Commercial Property (OMPIC) and other stakeholders. Mezzour said that this initiative aligns with Morocco's growing focus on innovation and technological development. The project will expand intellectual and industrial property awareness across different-sized cities, including medium-sized ones, to enhance trade protection, he added. According to the minister, Morocco-Switzerland cooperation is based on efficiency and targeted projects. Today's agreement is a clear example of the strong partnership between the two countries, he argued. Meanwhile, ambassador Zellweger reaffirmed Switzerland's commitment to supporting Morocco's institutional capacity in this area. He stated that Switzerland considers Morocco a priority country for economic cooperation and sees intellectual property protection as crucial for improving competitiveness, especially in agriculture through 'appellations of origin' (AOC) and patent protection. 'This partnership will boost innovation and competitiveness in Morocco and play an important role in the future of our economic relations,' he added. Abdelaziz Babqiqi, Director General of the Moroccan Office of Industrial and Commercial Property, spoke about Morocco's strategy for industrial and commercial property. He explained that this strategy aims to make intellectual property a key driver of a productive, innovative, and inclusive economy. Babqiqi shared that Morocco achieved record numbers in intellectual property protection in 2024. The country registered 31,500 trademarks (a 14% increase), 6,800 industrial designs (a 26% increase), and 2,900 patents. Tags: intellectual propertyMorocco switzerland
