HIBAPRESS-RABAT
Qatar Reads launched the theme of the month of October for its family reading program, entitled “Cultural Crossroads: Qatar – Morocco 2024”, in the presence of His Excellency Mr. Mohamed Setri, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco to Qatar. The event, organized in collaboration between Qatar Reads and the Years of Culture initiative, took place at the home of one of the family reading program subscribers, creating a warm atmosphere conducive to cultural dialogue.
During the launch, HE the Ambassador participated in a lively discussion with young readers, sharing perspectives on Moroccan traditions and fostering mutual awareness between the two countries. One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of the book Maryam in Morocco, a special production by Dar Al Hadaek, accompanied by a captivating storytelling session that brought the story to life for the children. Ten copies of the book were offered to the National Library of the Kingdom of Morocco to enrich their catalog. Two other special publications were distributed to Qatar Reads subscribers: Hayy bin Yaqdhan by Dar Nabjah, in Arabic and French, as well as Hayakom in Arabic, published by Hamad Bin Khalifa University Press (HBKU Press).
As part of its commitment to promoting cultural exchanges between Qatar and Morocco, Qatar Reads organized a week-long cultural trip, from October 13 to 19, 2024, under the theme “Literature and Education. » This trip aimed to strengthen understanding between the two nations through stories and various reading activities bringing together Qatari and Moroccan cultures. The sessions will continue until the end of December in collaboration with the Moroccan Ministry of Culture, during which 1,000 packages will be distributed to children in local libraries and cultural institutes.
The program in Morocco targets young readers to promote cultural understanding. Activities include Arabic storytelling sessions, workshops and performances, as well as the distribution of a reading package including the two special Qatar Reads books, bilingual activity sheets, and an original bilingual comic book serving as a welcome booklet for Qatar.
During this trip, the Qatar Reads team visited major cultural and educational institutions in Morocco, including the National Library of the Kingdom of Morocco and the Rabat Media Library. By engaging in exchanges with local communities, schools and cultural organizations, these visits fostered mutual understanding and collaboration through cultural diplomacy. Additionally, arts and crafts workshops complemented the distribution events, creating interactive platforms where children could participate in enriching discussions on the values shared by Qatar and Morocco.
On this occasion, Fatema Al Malki, Director of Qatar Reads and Acting Director of the Children and Young Adults Library, highlighted the powerful role of literature in creating cultural connections: “Books are bridges that connect people. cultures, serving as essential avenues for mutual understanding and appreciation. By turning the pages together, we built a shared future based on respect and collaboration, proving that the power of literature can strengthen the bonds of friendship.
Additionally, in partnership with the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), Qatar Reads is organizing a family day on October 26 highlighting Moroccan culture. This event offers families the opportunity to enjoy folkloric performances, arts and crafts workshops, and discover this unique culture through storytelling sessions, as well as a special tour of Dar Al Maghrib.
Through a dynamic exchange of books and dialogues, participants celebrated the rich cultural heritages of the two countries. This initiative not only highlights the importance of reading in strengthening bilateral relations, but also paves the way for a common vision.
