Morocco Signs Agreements to Protect and Promote Intangible Cultural Heritage

The Moroccan government has signed two partnership agreements aimed at protecting and promoting the country's intangible cultural heritage. The first agreement, signed with UNESCO, includes the addition of the traditional Moroccan dish 'harees' to UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list, alongside other cultural traditions from the Arab world such as the Palestinian version of the 'dabke' dance, Iraq's traditional craft skills, and Lebanon's 'man'oushe' flatbread.

The second agreement, signed with the Belgian government during the third meeting of the Morocco-Belgium High Joint Partnership Commission, seeks to strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation in various fields, including trade and investment, energy transition, water management, infrastructure, migration, counter-terrorism, organized crime, culture, and sports. The two governments also praised progress made in judicial and security cooperation.

These agreements come as part of broader efforts by the Moroccan government to safeguard and promote the country's rich cultural heritage. The Ministry of Culture will provide the necessary expertise to guarantee the protection of intellectual property and involve professionals, craftsmen, and operators in the process. The agreements also aim to give an international dimension to the protection of national heritage and strengthen its legal protection.

In addition to the UNESCO and Belgian agreements, Morocco has also been actively participating in cultural events and initiatives. The Islamic World Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) recently announced the closing ceremony of its year-long program celebrating Rabat as the Culture Capital of the Islamic World for 2024. The celebration included artistic and cultural events, such as the International Museum and Exhibition of the Prophet's Seerah and Islamic Civilization.

Morocco's Minister of Youth Culture and Communication, Mohammed Mehdi Bensaid, lauded the cooperation between the Ministry and ICESCO, which resulted in the organization of several activities and the inscription of 27 Moroccan heritage elements on ICESCO's Islamic World Heritage Lists. Marrakech is also set to host several groups of cultural, intellectual, and artistic events in 2023 that highlight Islamic civilization and the city's intangible heritage and archaeological sites.

Why this matters:The protection and promotion of intangible cultural heritage is vital for preserving the identity, diversity, and traditions of communities around the world. Morocco's commitment to UNESCO and Belgium demonstrate the country's commitment to safeguarding its rich cultural heritage and sharing it with the international community.

The Moroccan government's efforts to protect and promote intangible cultural heritage extend beyond the recent agreements with UNESCO and Belgium. As Mohammed Mehdi Bensaid, Morocco's Minister of Youth Culture and Communication, stated, "The cooperation between the Ministry and ICESCO resulted in the organization of several activities and the inscription of 27 Moroccan heritage elements on ICESCO's Islamic World Heritage Lists." These initiatives showcase Morocco's dedication to preserving its cultural identity and sharing it with the world.

Key Takeaways

• Morocco signed agreements with UNESCO and Belgium to protect cultural heritage.
• Moroccan dish 'harees' added to UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
• Morocco-Belgium partnership to strengthen cooperation in trade, energy, migration, and more.
• Morocco celebrated as Islamic World's Culture Capital for 2024 by ICESCO.
• Morocco committed to safeguarding its rich cultural identity and sharing it globally.