HIBAPRESS – Abdellatif Elbaz
The recent statements by the Moroccan Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, sparked a wave of anger and discontent within the Moroccan community residing in Italy, where a number of community activists considered that those statements do not reflect the level of appreciation that the Moroccan community residing abroad deserves.
In this context, Fatima Khallouq, President of the Italian-Moroccan Forum for Bilateral Relations, expressed her regret for what she described as an unfortunate speech towards Moroccans around the world, stressing that the Moroccan community in Italy has made significant contributions over the years, both at the economic and social levels, through financial transfers, investments, and solidarity initiatives aimed at supporting development in Morocco. She added that Moroccans abroad have always been ambassadors for their country in the host countries, and they contribute to enhancing the image of Morocco and strengthening bridges of cooperation between Morocco and Italy in various fields.
For his part, civil activist Tariq Benour confirmed that the Moroccan community in Italy feels disappointed by such statements, considering that Moroccans residing abroad constitute a fundamental lever for the national economy, and that their continuous contributions deserve an official speech that befits the size of their sacrifices and their role in supporting their homeland.
Activists from civil society in Italy called for the necessity of strengthening channels of communication and dialogue with Moroccans around the world, and working to adopt a responsible discourse that values their multiple roles and reflects genuine interest in their issues and aspirations. Observers believe that the Moroccan community abroad, especially in Europe, remains an essential element in the economic and social development of Morocco, which requires more recognition of its status and the strengthening of trust between it and official institutions.
