"City of Lights, Morocco’s Cultural Capital Rabat, will add the title of World Book Capital to its record of worldwide and regional recognitions,” the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Communication said in a press release, stressing that this nomination will provide an opportunity to promote collective awareness of the importance of books and reading.

It will also strengthen synergy between public institutions and civil society components to build an inclusive reading society, particularly among the youth, the same source added, noting that this strategic choice is “an opportunity to showcase the richness of our cultural heritage and to organize innovative events that will promote intercultural dialogue through the universal language of the book.”

Over the course of a year, Moroccan literature will be showcased in all its forms: writing, workshops, debates, training courses and fairs. In order to perpetuate Rabat's vocation as the capital of books and reading, new permanent projects will be implemented, notably through new creative areas.

Through this rich and diversified program, the World Book Capital will consolidate the place of books as a pillar of cultural and creative industries, and recognize reading as one of the keys to the success of the New Development Model, while highlighting our country's cultural diversity,” the press release added.