Rabat — The 20th edition of the Alexandria International Book Fair has dedicated this year’s cultural spotlight to the late Moroccan diplomat and intellectual Mohamed Benaïssa, honoring his lifelong contribution to Arab diplomacy and cultural exchange.
The tribute, held yesterday at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, carried the theme “Mohamed Benaïssa: A Journey of Generosity and Cultural Creativity.” The ceremony brought together diplomats, writers, and public figures, including Morocco’s ambassador to Egypt, Mohamed Ait Ouali, to reflect on Benaïssa’s enduring influence.
Former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Culture in Morocco, Benaïssa was widely recognized for bridging his official roles with important cultural initiatives.
One of his most enduring legacies remains the transformation of his hometown, Asilah, into an international hub for artistic dialogue through the creation of the Asilah Cultural Moussem; a model that continues to inspire cultural programming across the region.
Speaking at the event, Bibliotheca Alexandrina director, Ahmed Zayed, described Benaïssa as one of the pillars of the Arab cultural world.
“Though he is no longer with us, his work lives on,” Zayed said, citing Asilah’s annual gathering as a rare example of how a small city can become a melting point for global thinkers and creatives.
Egyptian journalist and cultural commentator, Ahmed Al-Moslemani, echoed that sentiment, noting how Benaïssa succeeded in placing Asilah on the global cultural map alongside cities like Cannes and Davos, despite the limited resources at his disposal.
“His path, from studying abroad to returning home, from parliament to the ministry, from local action to global influence, reflected both vision and humility,” he added.
This year’s fair, which runs until July 21, features 79 publishing houses and more than 200 cultural events, ranging from literary talks to workshops. Over 800 participants are expected to take part.
As the fair continues to celebrate literature and thought from across the Arab world, the memory of Mohamed Benaïssa stands as a reminder of how one person’s commitment to culture can leave a lasting mark, both at home and across borders.
