The Alliance Française of Laâyoune, a new space dedicated to French language learning, cultural exchange, and the promotion of artistic creation, was officially inaugurated on Wednesday in the presence of the French Ambassador to Morocco, Philippe Lalliot.
This new structure is tasked with promoting the French language among diverse audiences, developing high-quality educational and cultural programs, fostering intercultural dialogue, and contributing to the cultural influence of the region through an open programming approach based on diversity and exchange.
In his speech on the occasion, French Ambassador Philippe Lalliot stated that the opening of this Alliance is part of the commitments made by French President Emmanuel Macron during his 2024 state visit to Morocco, at the invitation of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. He noted that this new structure, the third French Alliance in the Kingdom after Safi and Ouarzazate, marks another step in strengthening cultural and educational cooperation between the two countries.
He added that this inauguration reflects the growing ties between Moroccan and French societies, peoples, and youth through education, language, and the arts, highlighting that the French cultural network in Morocco now includes three Alliances Françaises and twelve French Institutes, covering the entire country.
The ambassador also emphasized the uniqueness of the French cultural and educational system in Morocco, as well as Morocco’s decision to make its southern provinces a “land of the future,” where education and culture are key priorities.
For her part, the President of the Alliance Française of Laâyoune, El Alia Bougzaje, said that this inauguration represents the culmination of a project based on the belief that culture, education, and intercultural dialogue are essential drivers of human development and mutual understanding between peoples.
She added that this institution is particularly significant for Morocco’s southern provinces, as it contributes to the cultural influence of Laâyoune and highlights the rich tangible and intangible heritage as well as artistic expressions of the Moroccan Sahara.
Earlier in the day, the Ambassador and his delegation held talks with regional and local officials on development dynamics in the region. They also visited several major projects, including the City of Trades and Skills (CMC), the University Hospital Center (CHU), and the large public media library.
