Morocco is celebrating the first anniversary of Unity Day, a national holiday that embodies the values of unity, cohesion, and attachment to the country's territorial integrity. The occasion was marked by a conference-debate in Strasbourg, organized by the Moroccan Consulate General in partnership with the Moroccan community association and the Council of the Moroccan Community Abroad. The event brought together several speakers who highlighted the historical and symbolic significance of this day.
The conference, themed "A new dynamic in Franco-Moroccan relations in light of France's decision on the Moroccan Sahara," was attended by Soumia Bouhamidi, Consul General of Morocco in Strasbourg. She emphasized that Unity Day, established by King Mohammed VI, represents the values of unity, cohesion, and attachment to the country's territorial integrity. Bouhamidi also noted that the celebrations reflect the major stages of Morocco's history, including the struggle for independence and the preservation of national sovereignty.
The speakers at the conference praised the renewed dynamic in Franco-Moroccan relations, particularly after France's decision on the Moroccan Sahara in July 2024. They highlighted the importance of this decision in strengthening bilateral cooperation and supporting the efforts of the United Nations to find a lasting solution to the issue. Claude Kern, a former senator from the Bas-Rhin region, emphasized the effectiveness of Moroccan diplomacy under the leadership of King Mohammed VI.
Aïcha Douihi, president and co-founder of the International Observatory for Peace, Democracy, and Human Rights, noted that the international community's support for Morocco's cause has contributed to a significant shift in the diplomatic landscape around the Moroccan Sahara issue. She welcomed France's decision as an important milestone in bilateral relations and a new perspective for diplomatic cooperation.
Jillali El Adnani, a professor at Mohammed V University, discussed the historical foundations of Morocco's territorial integrity, including the process of territorial recovery and the return of the southern provinces. He highlighted the importance of using unpublished Moroccan archives, as well as foreign archives, to support the historical foundations of Morocco's claim to the Sahara.
Gabrielle Rosner-Bloch, a regional councilor delegated to culture and cults, representing the president of the Grand Est region, praised the strong Franco-Moroccan relations, recalling the state visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Morocco in October 2024. She also highlighted the long-standing partnership between the Grand Est region and the Oriental region of Morocco.
The conference program included several cultural and artistic activities showcasing Morocco's rich and diverse heritage. The participants had the opportunity to discover an exhibition dedicated to the Sahrawi tent, a symbol of the traditions and cultural heritage of the southern provinces of Morocco. The cultural program also featured an exhibition on traditional clothing from the Moroccan Sahara and a documentary film on the history and heritage of the region.
Key points
- Morocco celebrates the first anniversary of Unity Day, emphasizing national unity and territorial integrity.
- The occasion marks a renewed dynamic in Franco-Moroccan relations, particularly after France's decision on the Moroccan Sahara.
- The celebrations reflect Morocco's history, including the struggle for independence and the preservation of national sovereignty.
