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Rabat– Morocco and France kicked off a vibrant new chapter in their bilateral relations with the launch of the Franco-Moroccan cultural season on Wednesday evening at the French Residence in Rabat.
The event, attended by Morocco’s Minister of Culture Mehdi Bensaid, brought together young creators, diplomats, academics, and cultural professionals to celebrate the start of a year-long program of artistic and cultural exchanges.
In his opening remarks, French Ambassador Christophe Lecourtier affirmed the strategic importance of the relationship between the two countries, noting that it is driven by both economic collaboration and the intensity of cultural exchanges.
“We have already launched eleven economic agreements. We need each other in a relationship of equals,” the ambassador said, highlighting the importance the factories established in Morocco for the French economy and Rabat’s growing role in the energy transition.
“Moroccan energy will undoubtedly help us accelerate our decarbonization. It is an increasingly balanced relationship, based on interdependence and mutual trust,” he added.
Lecourtier also said that, under the leadership of President Emmanuel Macron and King Mohammed VI, Morocco and France have entered a “new era of cooperation”, strengthened notably by France’s recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces — a move that, he said, provides a firm foundation for bilateral relations.
“While the economy structures our partnership, culture is its cement,” Lecourtier stated. “Today, we have an incredibly diverse platform where interdependence, cultural blending, research, and creativity are at the core.”
He highlighted the various facets of the Institut Français’ Cultural Season 2025-26, which will feature visual arts, dance, music, photography, cinema, and urban arts, reflecting a dialogue and interplay of influences that, according to Lecourtier, aims to shape the future of both French and Moroccan societies.
Minister Mehdi Bensaid recalled the tangible outcomes of recent bilateral initiatives, noting that since President Macron’s visit to Morocco, multiple partnerships have been launched in areas ranging from creative industries and training programs to video gaming and co-produced films. “Culture can play a decisive role in shaping the near future,” the minister added.
Agnès Humruzian, Director General of the French Institute in Morocco, announced that this year’s cultural season will place a special focus on youth under the banner “J-Lioum.” She adds to Lecourtier’s remarks on the a rich and varied program, adding it will feature concerts, debates, film screenings, video games, urban arts performances, and festive events, describing the season as a moment of cultural effervescence and dynamic cooperation between the two countries.
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