Morocco’s Jewish Heritage Takes Center Stage in Upcoming Paris Exhibition

– byGinette · 2 min read
Morocco's Jewish Heritage Takes Center Stage in Upcoming Paris Exhibition

The president of the Arab World Institute (IMA) and former French Minister of Culture, Jack Lang, is currently on a professional visit to Morocco, on the sidelines of the exhibition that the IMA is preparing on the history of Jews in the Middle East and the Arab world. According to him, Morocco has a special place at the heart of this exhibition, due to Moroccan Judaism, which is one of the most influential, having benefited from the personal investment of the country’s first leader.

When questioned about this exhibition that will be held in Paris, Jack Lang stated that this event will be a discovery for many. According to him, Morocco offers a striking example when it comes to the history of the Jews. "Practically, we will have to mention all the cities, as well as the villages of Morocco, such as Fez, Essaouira and many others. Moroccan Judaism is an original Judaism and it is especially marked by the culture of the country. Obviously, the Kingdom will occupy a very important place within this exhibition," added the former French Minister of Culture.

During his visit, the president of the IMA visited the Dar El Bacha Museum in Marrakech. He congratulated the Moroccan authorities for their management of the health crisis. He said he was happy to be able to visit museums in Morocco, while in France everything is still closed. "I don’t understand why in France they continue to close museums while in Morocco the places are open. It’s wonderful!" reported the MAP.

As for Mehdi Qotbi, president of the National Foundation of Museums (FNM), he said he was "happy" with the time of exchange and sharing he had with the president of the IMA. They discussed the efforts made by Morocco to maintain a cultural life during the pandemic. "For years, we have benefited from the know-how and experience of Jack Lang, who is a great lover of Morocco. This love will be materialized by the place that the Kingdom will have in the great expected exhibition," explained Mehdi Qotbi.