Rabat – Montreal: Strengthening Bonds of Friendship and Cooperation Between Moroccan and Canadian Youth Amid Deep-Rooted Relations

JOURNALE ASWAT

Experts and stakeholders from Morocco and Canada praised the vital role played by youth in enhancing cultural and diplomatic relations between the two countries during events organized by the Moroccan Youth Council for Diplomatic and International Cooperation, in partnership with Dar Morocco and the National Council for the Integration of Moroccan Competencies Abroad.

The event was attended by a Moroccan delegation in Canada, represented by Mr. Mohamed Mahdi Kaouan, and featured inspiring participation from Moroccan and Canadian youth, alongside Moroccan professionals residing in Canada, academic and civil society activities.

The occasion, marked by an open dialogue and exchange of ideas, served as a platform to foster understanding and communication between generations and cultures in a country widely recognized as a model of pluralism and cultural integration. This imbued the gathering with symbolic significance, reflecting the deep bonds between Morocco and Canada, grounded in principles of openness, peace, and coexistence.

President of the Moroccan Youth Council: Youth as a Bridge to the Future
In his opening speech, Mr. Moataz Koubri, president of the Moroccan Youth Council for Diplomatic and International Cooperation, emphasized that the meeting reflects the directives of the royal leadership, especially in the context of His Majesty King Mohammed VI’s vision, which places great importance on youth as a driving force for change and development. He stressed the need to activate cultural dialogue and joint cooperation between Moroccan and Canadian youth, focusing on harnessing young talents to enhance Morocco’s image in various spheres.

Ambassador Ikram Azherwan: Youth as the Driving Force of Communication and Belonging
Ms. Ikram Azherwan, the council’s ambassador in Canada, highlighted the vital role of youth in community development. She expressed pride in initiatives organized by the council to strengthen cultural ties and valorize their authentic identity, emphasizing ongoing collaboration with the Moroccan Embassy in Canada to support youth participation in cultural and diplomatic activities.

Mohamed Mahdi Kaouan: Youth as a Cornerstone of Moroccan-Canadian Relations
For his part, Mr. Mohamed Mahdi Kaouan, representative of the Moroccan diplomatic mission in Canada, noted that the event reflects a new momentum in bilateral relations, affirming the central role of youth in fostering understanding and cultural as well as diplomatic rapprochement. He highlighted the successes of the Moroccan community in Canada across various sectors and called for greater attention to youth issues to elevate bilateral relations to advanced levels.

Huda Azmouri: Sustainable Cultural Dialogue
Ms. Huda Azmouri, director of Dar Morocco, pointed out that Moroccan and Canadian youth form a bridge of peace and intercultural rapprochement. She underscored the importance of sustaining cultural dialogue and promoting joint initiatives that reinforce values of coexistence and openness through youth events and spaces for positive interaction and cultural exchange.

Salma Rkikri: Youth as a Soft Power Serving the Nation and Abroad
In her speech, Ms. Salma Rkikri, head of the National Council for the Integration of Moroccan Competencies Abroad, emphasized the value of young talents abroad, considering them active elements in shaping Morocco’s positive image and enhancing its presence in international forums. She called for integrating these competencies into the country’s strategic vision in diplomacy, economic openness, and culture.

Recommendations and Participant Testimonials
The event received praise from academics and civil organizations in Canada and Morocco, who regarded Morocco as a model of moderation and pluralism. They called for strengthening partnerships in education, technology, innovation, and culture, emphasizing the importance of continued investment in youth as a strategic tool for building a shared future.

Active participation was noted from members of the Moroccan Youth Council residing in Canada, who expressed high readiness to effectively represent the kingdom. They reaffirmed their commitment to diplomatic responsibility, empowering youth, and supporting national issues.

As of today, 06/15/2025, relations between Morocco and Canada continue their journey of progress and understanding, guided by leadership that combines wisdom and awareness of youth as a key driver of development and cultural rapprochement.