Moroccan expert in economic diplomacy and sovereignty, Amine Lghidi, received a “high honorary award” from the French publishing group “Editis” on Friday, during the Paris Book Festival held from April 11 to 13.
This accolade was awarded in recognition of Lghidi’s “outstanding commitment” and “notable imprint” in the field of education and training, according to the Editis group, which comprises around fifty publishing houses.
The group stated that his “exemplary” contributions, particularly in vital areas such as health, food security, the integration of youth and women, and job creation, represent a “valuable contribution deserving of proper recognition.”
Upon receiving the award from Ghada El Touili, Director of Education Development at Editis and International Nathan, Lghidi expressed that “the significance of this honor draws its strength from the solid ties of friendship between Morocco, which is celebrated today as the guest of honor at this book festival, and the French Republic, a friendly and strategic ally.”
He affirmed that this friendship has been “strengthened” forever by France’s support for Morocco’s sovereignty over its Sahara, emphasizing the magnificent vision and insightful leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, “which has inspired and will continue to inspire generations of Moroccans and Africans in general, driving them to love their sovereign nations and transform this love into unified action, solidifying the foundations of peace and stability and launching the engines of prosperity for all.”
The Moroccan expert added, “In education, I have always believed that before we pour the mercury of knowledge, we must shape and properly refine the vessel,” stressing that this shaping should be “based on existential values represented by respect, humility, and honor, and sustained through principles of steadfastness and duty.”
He further noted, “The duty lies in serving the individual, creating value for them and their community and country, and protecting them from any extremist or separatist threat.”
He also highlighted the importance of building economic and civilizational bridges and investing in youth and women in Africa, who, according to him, represent “the two pillars that support the gateway to integrated and sustainable development.”
The Moroccan pavilion spans 330 square meters and includes five interactive corners: the maritime history space, showcasing Morocco’s maritime past through old maps and travelers’ accounts; the “Dialogue” space, a meeting point for publishers, authors, and the public; the signing space, featuring meetings and signing sessions with Moroccan authors; the children’s space, offering stories and interactive workshops to cultivate a love for reading among young children; and the publishing houses and library space, displaying the diversity of the Moroccan publishing scene.