Moroccan Book Fair Faces Controversy Over Alleged Pressure on Algerian Writers

Mohamed M’Barki, Director General of the Oriental Agency, the organizer of the fair, stated during a press conference that invitations had been sent to "everyone", including Algerian cultural figures.

The official reaffirmed Morocco’s position on the issue of relations with Algeria, advocating a policy of outstretched hand.

However, he reported "pressures" that would have been exerted on these intellectuals to prevent their coming to Morocco.

Despite these obstacles, the official announced the presence of other intellectuals and artists from the Maghreb and elsewhere, proof that culture "has the capacity to build the relationship in the Maghreb space".

The fair, which aims to be a space for free debate without barriers, will bring together more than 150 speakers from various countries, as well as publishing houses from Morocco, the Maghreb, Africa and Europe.