The Role of Traditional Industry in Moroccan Cultural Diplomacy
Launched by Lahcen Saadi, the Secretary of State for Traditional Industry and Social and Solidarity Economy, the traditional industry sector plays a pivotal role in cultural diplomacy, showcasing the richness of Moroccan heritage. This was highlighted during the opening of the Moroccan Traditional Industry Exhibition in Kifisia, Athens, attended by notable figures including Royal Advisor André Azoulay and the Moroccan Ambassador to Greece and Cyprus. Saadi emphasized that the Moroccan National Week of Traditional Industry serves as an occasion to strengthen Moroccan-Greek friendships and promote Greek culture, given the shared civilizational ties that link both nations as Mediterranean countries.
Saadi elaborated on the importance of Moroccan artisans engaging with cultures from other countries, such as Greece, which not only enriches their creativity but also broadens their knowledge. Under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, Morocco is committed to fostering values of openness and dialogue among civilizations, religions, and cultures, reflecting the depth of Moroccan identity through the creations of its artisans.
Showcasing Moroccan Craftsmanship
The State Secretariat for Traditional Industry and the Social and Solidarity Economy, in cooperation with the regional chambers of traditional industry in Casablanca-Settat, Marrakech-Safi, and Souss-Massa, is organizing the National Week of Moroccan Traditional Industry in Athens from May 19 to 24. This event will feature a select group of Moroccan artisans and craftsmen. According to Saadi, this initiative aims to enhance the international visibility of Moroccan traditional industry and strengthen cultural cooperation between Morocco and Greece.
The event is distinguished by an exhibition featuring over 30 booths showcasing various Moroccan traditional products. The Casablanca-Settat Chamber of Traditional Industry is participating with 15 booths representing several crafts, including leather garments, jewelry, traditional sewing, plant products, local tiles, wooden products, and traditional textiles, alongside the famous Mdeni rugs. Meanwhile, the Marrakech-Safi Chamber contributes another 15 booths, presenting traditional crafts renowned in the region, such as traditional fabric painting, jewelry making, shoe crafting, juniper wood products, and pottery, in addition to local products and oils extracted through traditional methods. The Souss-Massa Chamber will also present local products.
In parallel with this event, a Moroccan caftan fashion show will be held, showcasing creations from artisans at the residence of Ambassador Mohamed Sabihi. Additionally, a fountain made of authentic Moroccan tiles has been installed in a public park in Kifisia, aimed at nurturing cultural and civilizational connections between Morocco and Greece.
As reported by hespress.com.
