This article was automatically translated from HIBAPRESS, the Arabic version:
Hibapress-Rabat-Ait
Badreddine Idrissi, president of the Moroccan Association of the Sports Press, stressed that the 87th AIPS congress in Rabat takes place at a very significant and sensitive moment, because Morocco has become more and more a destination for major international sporting events, both in Africa and around the world. This dynamic embodies, in my opinion, the enlightened vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, which aims to strengthen the position of Morocco as a leading sports destination,…
He added: “It is interesting to note that this 87th edition of the AIPS congress is held in Morocco for the second time, after the first edition in 2005, which saw Mr. Gianni Merlo elected president of AIPS, a position he still occupies today. Mr. Merlo has always expressed his desire to see the congress returning to Morocco, recognizing the great success of the first edition and the momentum it aroused ”.
Mr. Idrissi stressed that the congress was held under the high patronage of His Majesty, which testifies to the recognition of Morocco’s major initiatives in the sport and the realization of the royal vision. “As Moroccan sports journalists, we consider that the media play an essential role in the success of major sporting events. It is therefore our duty to be present, to welcome the delegations of the world media and to ensure that this congress becomes a significant event in the history of AIPS and a key moment in the creation of sports media content, “he explained.
The president of AIPS, Gianni Merlo, underlined the importance of the high patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI for the Congress to be held from May 13 to 17, describing it as a deep honor and a source of great joy for all participants in this world event.
“I believe that this royal patronage is of immense importance, and more, it brings us great happiness. Morocco is a country where sport is deeply rooted, and I can testify personally, knowing Morocco for many years. This country has produced exceptional sports champions, such as Saïd Aouita, and especially Nawal El Moutawakel, which will be present during our award ceremony. Morocco has a rich sports story, and I think we are in the right place to celebrate sport and sports journalism, “said Merlo.
Returning to his return to Morocco two decades after the country welcomed the AIPS congress for the first time, in Marrakech in 2005, when he was elected president of AIPS for the first time, Mr. Merlo expressed his pride with regard to this important stage. “This is a very special opportunity, which marks an important birthday. I am very proud to be here, where I started my journey as president, and since then, we have recorded many remarkable achievements, “he explained.
Regarding the key themes which will be discussed during the Congress, Mr. Merlo stressed the importance of approaching the crucial questions facing sports journalists around the world. “In this congress, we will discuss the most urgent questions for sports journalists today. We will focus on artificial intelligence, content creators and support for women journalists who continue to deal with important challenges and need help to emerge and excel. We will also approach the question of sports integrity, by fighting against illegal bets, which constitute one of the most serious problems with which sport is confronted today. In addition, we will focus on investigative journalism, which is essential to preserve the future of sport and defend its principles. ”
Idrissi added: “This event should be an opportunity to discuss the challenges and obstacles to which sports journalism is confronted today, ensuring the continuity of the profession and preserving its integrity. We hope, with the will of God, that this congress will be surrounded by all the elements of success, allowing us to honor our country as journalists, as organizers and as stakeholders active in this world event, “concluded Mr. Idrissi.
