DR ‹ › An enchanting evening celebrating the seamless blend of heritage and modernity took place on Friday night in Rabat, marking the official launch of "Rabat, World Book Capital 2026". The event showcased a captivating mix of artistic performances, featuring choreography, music, drama, and calligraphy. The ceremony was highlighted by an educational dialogue between actor Rachid El Ouali and the young Zina El Ouali, illustrating the profound roots of reading and literature in both global and Moroccan history. This engaging exchange was interspersed with expressive dance sequences choreographed by Najia Attaoui, and vocal performances by Malhoun virtuoso Sanaa Marahati, all under the artistic direction of Amine Nassour. During the festivities, the Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, received a symbolic book from Brazil's ambassador to Morocco, Alexandre Guido Lopes Parola. This gesture marked the official handover of the World Book Capital title from Rio de Janeiro to Rabat for the year extending until April 24, 2027. In his address, Bensaid emphasized that Rabat's designation as World Book Capital is «not merely an honorary title, but an international recognition of Morocco's status as a beacon of thought and a bridge for intercultural dialogue». The minister further explained that this selection affirms the royal vision of culture as a catalyst for development and knowledge as a fundamental right for every citizen. Amidst SIEL 2026, the activities of Rabat, UNESCO World Book Capital Bensaid also promised residents and visitors of Rabat an extraordinary program designed to bring literature out of traditional spaces and into the public arena, transforming the city into an open-air library where global literature meets unique local heritage. Meanwhile, Charaf Ahmimed, director of the UNESCO Regional Office for the Maghreb, remarked that Rabat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, perfectly embodies the dialogue between heritage and modernity, serving as a vibrant hub for the exchange of ideas and the transmission of knowledge. The Rabat World Book Capital event boasts a rich program of 342 diverse activities spread across various locations, all aimed at promoting a culture of reading and nurturing the cultural industry.
