The cultural dynamism Morocco is experiencing embodies its richness, its talents, and its capacity to embrace innovation and universality, said on Thursday in Skhirat, Advisor to HM the King and Chairman of the Board of Directors of International Academy of Scientific Francophonie (AIFS), André Azoulay.
"In the cultural field, the Kingdom holds a distinguished place thanks to the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, who is always attentive to the evolution and influence of this domain," Azoulay told MAP on the sidelines of the International Colloquium organized over two days by the AIFS on the theme "Creating worlds: creative and cultural industries (CCIs) at the heart of the Francophonie".
Highlighting that hosting this international colloquium in Morocco is a recognition of the Kingdom’s cultural dynamism, he noted that Morocco’s leadership in this area is also reflected in the fact that the city of Essaouira will host next year’s World Summit of the Most Creative Cities in the World.
Azoulay also emphasized the role of culture in the economic development of nations, pointing out that this sector, in all its disciplines, dimensions, and expressions, ranks at the top of global GDP, creating the most wealth and jobs.
"Culture is, of course, an important economic driver, but it is also the field that best embodies human and societal dynamics," he stressed.
In a similar statement, the Rector of the Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF), Slim Khalbous, affirmed that Morocco is one of the most dynamic countries in the Francophone space in the field of CCIs.
According to him, the Kingdom is experiencing a sustained cultural dynamism, fostered by events, festivals, and cultural productions of all kinds, accompanying the country’s significant economic development.
Pointing out that the Francophone space, in its cultural and linguistic diversity, must become aware of the new challenges of CCIs, Khalbous underscored the need to approach culture and art differently, by considering them as levers for economic development and job creation.
Bringing together academics, artists, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and representatives of international organizations, this international colloquium will also feature the presentation of the results of the mapping of cultural and creative industries training programs, conducted by AIFS in five Francophone regions of the Global South (North Africa, West Africa, Central Africa and the Great Lakes, Southern Africa, the Indian Ocean, and the Middle East).
On the sidelines of this gathering, the AIFS Board of Directors meeting and the inaugural meeting of the International Committee of Francophone Editors-in-Chief will also be held.
MAP: 18 September 2025
