Moroccan Minister Surprises French Official with Stance on Secularism

During this informal exchange, the issue of secularism was addressed. The French minister, convinced of the benefits of "moderate Moroccan Islam", would have questioned Ahmed Toufiq on the notion of secularism, apparently expecting a reaction of rejection. It was with astonishment that he received this answer: "We are secular". A statement that left Bruno Retailleau "speechless", according to the words of the Moroccan minister. Ahmed Toufiq then developed his point, explaining that if Morocco does not have a law similar to that of 1905, the principle of religious freedom is nevertheless rooted in the country. He even cited a verse from the Quran to illustrate the absence of constraint in matters of religion.

This meeting seems to have marked the two men since, according to Ahmed Toufiq, Bruno Retailleau would have sent him a letter to request new discussions. "We tell the French leaders: we are with you," said the Moroccan minister, emphasizing Morocco’s willingness to promote moderation and freedom in a context he describes as "difficult".

These revelations were made in response to a question about the religious supervision of Moroccans residing in Europe. Ahmed Toufiq acknowledged the difficulties encountered, particularly in obtaining visas for religious trainers, especially before Ramadan. He also mentioned the political turmoil in Europe that complicates the situation.

The minister recalled the financial commitment of his department to support associations that provide religious supervision for Moroccans abroad. This year, 96 million dirhams have been allocated to France, Italy, Belgium and Canada. Delegations of readers and preachers are also sent each year to nine countries. The ministry has also provided more than 345,000 copies of the Quran to mosques and Islamic centers in the diaspora, as well as many religious books.