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Rabat – The 29th edition of the International Book and Publishing Fair (SIEL-2024), a significant cultural and literary event in Morocco, kicked off today in Rabat.
The opening ceremony was presided over by Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, the event was attended by a host of political, diplomatic, media, and cultural figures, including the Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid.
In a press statement, Bensaid emphasized that the SIEL represents not only a celebration of books and reading but also an opportunity for all citizens to discover new cultural horizons.
He highlighted the fair’s crucial role in the cultural and publishing industries, as well as its economic and social impact, noting that participants record significant book sales and gain visibility each edition.
Bensaid also acknowledged the constant support provided by his department for reading and books, mentioning that several regional, national, and international cultural fairs are held across the kingdom.
UNESCO as the Honored Guest
Eric Falt, the Director of the UNESCO Regional Bureau for the Maghreb, expressed his delight at being invited as the honored guest of this edition of the SIEL. He cited the recognition of UNESCO’s work and the ties between the organization and Morocco.
Falt explained that visitors would have the chance to explore the various activities and actions UNESCO has undertaken in the fields of science, communication, and information, as well as UNESCO World Heritage sites and biosphere reserves.
He also mentioned that the UNESCO space would host over 20 conferences during the ten-day fair, focusing on two key topics: artificial intelligence and youth.
Organized by the Ministry of Youth and scheduled to run until May 19, Culture, and Communication in partnership with the Wilaya of Rabat-Salé-Kénitra, the region of Rabat-Salé-Kenitra, and the City of Rabat, this edition of the SIEL features 743 exhibitors from 48 countries, with UNESCO as the honored guest.
Read also: English Language Books Garner Massive Popularity at Rabat Book Fair 2023
The cultural program of the SIEL, which offers a wide range of activities featuring Moroccan and international authors, thinkers, and creators, confirms Morocco’s reputation as a country of cultural encounters, dialogue, and exchanges.
A total of 241 cultural activities will take place during the fair, including conferences on diverse topics such as Africa’s diversity, profiles and images, gendered writing, media and technology, with the participation of a variety of Moroccan and international writers, intellectuals, and poets.
