The 47th Asilah Cultural Season started on October 4, 2026, in Asilah, Morocco. The event is organized by the Asilah Forum Foundation under the royal patronage. This year's theme is "Asilah: Land of Encounter and Dialogue." The festival brings together diplomats, politicians, and cultural figures for discussions and exchanges.
The festival's opening session featured a symposium on "Energy and Water Stakes in Africa and Strategic Projects: Towards a New Geopolitics." The discussion highlighted the profound changes in Africa amid ongoing structural challenges and emerging strategic dynamics. Hatem Batioui, Secretary-General of the Asilah Forum, emphasized the need for African countries to develop integrated visions.
Batioui noted that the current international context is characterized by a rapid reshaping of power balances, with intensifying geostrategic competition among major powers over natural resources, trade routes, and areas of influence. The environment is also marked by climate change, increasing pressure on water and energy resources, and disruptions to global supply chains.
The festival includes various activities, such as concerts, literary and artistic workshops, and exhibitions. A workshop on children's literature and expression is also part of the program, aiming to provide a space for young people to learn and experiment. The event continues until October 18, 2026.
Miguel Angel Moratinos, former Spanish Foreign Minister and High Representative of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, participated in the opening session. He stated that the "curse of oil" has not led to development and that the future is heading towards "energy democratization." Moratinos emphasized that possessing oil wealth can be a "curse" that pollutes the environment.
Mohammed Bensayyid, Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, highlighted the importance of the Asilah Cultural Season as a unique event that combines geopolitics and intellectual and artistic activities. The event has become a significant cultural and intellectual gathering in Morocco.
The festival also features participation from prominent figures, including Romano Prodi, former Italian Prime Minister and President of the European Commission. Prodi emphasized the importance of integrating Africa's resources through increased trade exchanges, cooperation on climate issues, and attracting foreign investment.
Key points
- The 47th Asilah Cultural Season focuses on geopolitics, literature, and art.
- The event highlights the need for African countries to develop integrated visions for sustainable development.
- The festival features various activities, including concerts, workshops, and exhibitions.
