Gathered at Bayt Dakira, more than thirty directors and managers of WINEP, one of the most prestigious and influential think-tanks in the U.S. capital, had the opportunity to take the measure of the Kingdom's unique and far-sighted contribution to the Mediterranean today.

Chaired by Azoulay, in the presence of the Governor of Essaouira Province, Adil El Maliki, and the Mayor of Essaouira, Tarik Ottmani, the session focused on the “pioneering relevance” of Morocco's strategic choices, which, according to Azoulay, “now make our country a respected and listened-to stakeholder.”

“A stakeholder whose fundamental choices are not dictated by the vagaries of the moment or by the temptation of current opportunities,” HM the King's Advisor said.

“We must take into account Morocco's long history to understand its construction of a project for society that reconciles the achievements of our country’s sustained momentum and the pioneering choices that inspire the roadmap laid out by His Majesty the King, making the Kingdom one of the nation-states whose voice is heard and is authoritative in the face of the challenges we are collectively facing,” emphasized Azoulay, stressing the “historical depth that underpins the Moroccan exception in the history of American diplomacy.”

After a debate reviewing the current issues in our region and on the international scene, Robert Satloff, WINEP's Executive Director and a leading American expert on the Middle East and North Africa, pointed out that “Morocco, under the enlightened leadership of HM King Mohammed VI, has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to peace and security,” adding that “the Kingdom's diplomatic initiatives, notably its active role in Arab and African issues, bear witness to its strategic position and growing influence on the international scene.”

“Morocco’s cultural diversity is an important asset that must be celebrated and used as a model to follow in the entire world. We have much to learn from the Moroccan approach in interfaith dialogue and peace promotion,” he told the press.

“Morocco and the U.S. share a deep historical relationship, founded on solid common interests and shared values. As we look to the future, I am convinced that our partnership will only grow stronger. Through mutual understanding and increased collaboration, we can bring our two countries even closer together, to the benefit of both our peoples,” Satloff concluded.