The 12th Italian-Moroccan Festival was inaugurated at the University of Padua, Italy, under the theme "Peace, Human Rights, and Intercultural Dialogue for a New Humanity." The event aims to foster tolerance, coexistence, and cultural exchange between Italian and Moroccan youth. The festival's opening session highlighted the importance of cultural exchange and dialogue between the Mediterranean regions and the role of youth in strengthening Moroccan-Italian relations.
The festival's president, Abdullah Al-Khazraji, emphasized the significance of cultural initiatives in bridging the gap between Moroccan and Italian youth. He reviewed the festival's experience in organizing visits for Italian parliamentarians to Morocco, including the southern regions, as well as cultural and academic exchange programs. These initiatives allowed Italian academics and students to learn about Moroccan history, cultural heritage, and development achievements.
Moroccan Consul General in Verona, Hassnaa Halim, highlighted the importance of dialogue and coexistence between cultures and peoples. She emphasized the need to make youth a driving force for strengthening European-African rapprochement and building relations based on mutual respect and understanding. Halim praised the Moroccan community in Italy for supporting cultural and cultural initiatives.
Mohammed Ait Bousleham, an expert in public policies and strategic communication, noted that the festival coincides with two significant events in Morocco: the celebration of the first anniversary of Unity Day and the appointment of a woman as head of the Moroccan government. He called on the Italian government to review its position on the Moroccan Sahara issue and adopt a realistic approach to resolving the conflict.
Ait Bousleham also highlighted the historical depth of Moroccan-Italian relations, dating back to the 18th century. He stressed the need to reactivate this cultural heritage in light of demographic and economic changes in Europe and Africa. The expert proposed establishing a European-African youth parliament as an institutional framework for dialogue and cooperation.
Professor Marco Massa from the University of Padua discussed peace, human rights, and intercultural dialogue. He criticized the Italian government's handling of student protests and called for improved education and research conditions. Professor Michele Di Centieu presented a paper on "Peace as a Moral Goal of History," highlighting the importance of intercultural dialogue in promoting understanding between nations.
The festival continued with the signing of the statute for the Global Youth Parliament, aiming to establish a new platform for communication and cooperation between young people from different countries. The event reinforced the festival's presence as a space for cultural and academic dialogue, promoting rapprochement between Morocco and Italy.
Key points
- The festival promotes cultural exchange and celebrates Morocco's territorial unity.
- The event highlights the importance of dialogue and coexistence between cultures and peoples.
- The festival proposes establishing a European-African youth parliament to foster dialogue and cooperation.
