HIBAPRESS
The Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of UNESCO, meeting for its twentieth session in New Delhi, decided today, Wednesday, to include "The Moroccan Caftan: Art, Customs, and Skills" on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
A statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates stated that this important international recognition reflects the international community's appreciation for the enlightened vision of King Mohammed VI, aimed at safeguarding cultural heritage, promoting authentic artistic expressions, and preserving traditional skills, as essential levers for sustainable development and social cohesion. The statement highlighted that this inclusion consecrates the richness and authenticity of the Moroccan caftan, which has spanned centuries, as a living testament to the Kingdom's history, its multiple identities, and its creative genius, indicating that the caftan, worn and protected by successive generations, is a symbol of elegance and sophistication, and the transfer of unique artisanal skills across the Kingdom. It added that this recognition also reflects the effective and constructive role of the Kingdom of Morocco in UNESCO, and its firm commitment to safeguarding intangible cultural heritage in all its diversity and historical depth. The Committee for the Intangible Cultural Heritage praised, through this decision, Morocco's contribution to preserving a living heritage in which creativity, identity, and intergenerational transmission converge, as well as enriching cultural dialogue and mutual understanding between peoples. The statement concluded that with this recognition, the Kingdom of Morocco will continue its efforts to protect, promote, and transmit the knowledge and artisanal skills related to the Moroccan caftan, and renews its commitment to the universal values of cultural diversity and mutual respect, which are at the heart of UNESCO's goals and work.
