The International Publishing and Book Fair in Rabat (SIEL 2026) hosted a panel discussion in Averroes Hall titled “Morocco and Living Together,” focusing on the Kingdom’s spirit of harmony as a global model of coexistence.

The session featured several prominent international speakers: André Azoulay, Moroccan diplomat and Senior Adviser to His Majesty King Mohammed VI, Ahmed Abbadi, secretary General of the Rabita Mohammadia des Oulémas, and Alfred Xuereb, a Maltese prelate of the Catholic Church and the Apostolic Nuncio (Ambassador of the Vatican) to Morocco. Asma Lamrabet, a Moroccan physician and acclaimed writer, moderated the panel.

The panel examined Morocco’s model as a nation founded on the principles of peace and mutual respect. The discussion reflected the constitutional and institutional reforms designed to promote openness and interfaith dialogue.

Coexistence in Morocco is safeguarded by His Majesty King Mohammed VI through his role as Commander of the Faithful (Amir Al-Mouminine), a position that ensures the protection of the freedom of worship. Furthermore, the 2011 Moroccan Constitution formally recognizes the nation's identity as a rich blend of its Islamic, Amazigh, Andalusian, Mediterranean, and African components.

Alfred Xuereb emphasized the solid ties between the Holy See and Morocco, noting their long history of cooperation on interfaith dialogue. Morocco is currently celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations with the Vatican, a history marked by key milestones:

1980: King Hassan II’s historic visit to the Vatican.

1985: Pope John Paul II’s landmark visit to Casablanca.

1988: The official opening of the Vatican Embassy in Rabat.

2019: Pope Francis’s visit to Morocco and his meeting with His Majesty King Mohammed VI.

For his part, Ahmed Abbadi stated that “choice has always been the key to coexistence and cooperation.” According to him, understanding a culture is a complex process of "inter-exploring" different aspects and observations. He noted that "living together" is built on a shared wisdom that fosters dialogue between religions.

André Azoulay added: “We are in a space where the truth of our capacity to live together wins over all other places and times.” He spoke passionately about the concept of "Tamghrabit" (Moroccan identity), explaining it as a unique cultural essence that transcends simple definition.

He concluded with a heartfelt sentiment: “What a joy to be Moroccan at this time.” He emphasized that Morocco is successfully championing a civilization of reason and maturity. While acknowledging “diversity is a complexity,” he urged for the promotion of a Morocco that remains deeply conscious of its history while looking toward the future.