Prince Moulay Rachid presided over the opening of the 30th International Book and Publishing Fair (SIEL) on Thursday, April 18, 2025, at the OLM-Souissi arena in Rabat. The event runs from April 18 to 27. During the opening, Prince Moulay Rachid toured several booths, including the Emirate of Sharjah's, which is the guest of honor at this year's edition. This participation emphasizes the cultural and historical ties between Morocco and the UAE, while also showcasing recent developments in Emirati culture. The Prince also visited booths representing Palestine, the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication, the French Institute of Morocco, the Société Chérifienne de Distribution et de Presse (SOCHEPRESS), Dar Amane, and the Universe of the Smurfs. The fair, organized by the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication in partnership with the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra Regional Council and the Wilaya of the region, features 756 exhibitors from 51 countries, including both direct and indirect participants. With over 100,000 titles spanning various fields and genres, the fair honors the Emirate of Sharjah and highlights the contributions of Moroccans worldwide in promoting the country's plural identity. This year's edition includes a rich cultural program featuring conferences, literary meetings, poetry evenings, and book signings, led by Moroccan and international researchers, writers, and artists. The fair also celebrates key figures in Moroccan and Arab culture with tributes and literary award ceremonies, such as the Ibn Battouta Prize for Travel Literature and the National Reading Prize. As in previous editions, a dedicated program for children and students will run throughout the event. The 30th edition of SIEL reaffirms its role as a significant cultural event, contributing to the revitalization of the national cultural scene and boosting Rabat's status as a cultural destination, particularly as the city prepares to be named World Book Capital in 2026.
