DR ‹ › On Friday in Rabat, the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication signed a partnership agreement with the Sharjah Book Authority from the United Arab Emirates, marking a significant step in the Rabat World Book Capital 2026 program. The agreement was signed by Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, Morocco's Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, and Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairwoman of the Sharjah Book Authority and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Education and Book Culture. According to a ministry statement, this collaboration underscores the robust cultural ties between Morocco and the UAE. The initiative aims to bolster cultural cooperation between the two nations, drawing on Sharjah's leading role in developing a comprehensive publishing industry. This aligns with Morocco's goals to boost cultural investment and promote the creative economy. The partnership acts as a catalyst for the book and publishing sector, positioning cultural and creative industries at the core of economic development. These industries hold great potential for wealth and job creation, while playing a vital role in fostering a knowledge-based society and enhancing Morocco's cultural influence, the statement notes. Rabat has been named UNESCO's World Book Capital for 2026, following Rio de Janeiro in 2025. UNESCO highlights Rabat as a cultural hub that encourages the exchange of knowledge and the arts. With 54 publishing houses and an increasing number of bookstores, the growth of the local book industry is essential for advancing education, in line with UNESCO's objectives.
