Tangier – UNESCO’s International Jazz Day found a new home this year in the vibrant city of Tangier, highlighting Morocco’s growing reputation as a hub for international cultural events. The decision to select Tangier for this prestigious celebration was praised by government officials, cultural leaders, and musicians alike.
Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, the Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, lauded UNESCO’s choice, emphasizing Morocco’s track record in organizing major international events. He highlighted Tangier’s historical connection with jazz, noting the city’s role as a haven for legendary jazz musicians seeking inspiration.
The festivities, held under the High Patronage of HM King Mohammed VI, took place at Tangier’s newly inaugurated Palace of Arts and Culture, a symbol of the country’s commitment to promoting cultural exchange and expression.
Ernesto Ottone Ramírez, UNESCO’s Assistant Director-General for Culture, commended the event’s organization and underscored Tangier’s rich jazz heritag
e. He expressed his delight at witnessing musicians from around the world come together to celebrate jazz in Africa for the first time.
Renowned musician Herbie Hancock, among the attendees, expressed his admiration for the event’s grandeur and urged audiences to prepare for an unforgettable evening of music and celebration.
Brahim El Mazned, Artistic Director of Visa for Music, applauded Tangier’s selection, noting the city’s longstanding tradition of hosting world-class jazz events. He emphasized the global reach of the celebration, with billions of viewers tuning in online.
Local officials, including Tangier Mayor Mounir Laymouri and Hicham Abkari, Director of Arts at the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication, highlighted the event’s significance in promoting Tangier’s cultural prominence on the international stage.
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries such as André Azoulay, HM the King’s Advisor, and representatives from the Ministry of National Education and the Herbie Hancock Institute o
f Jazz, among others.
Organized by UNESCO and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, with support from the Moroccan government and the municipality of Tangier, the event showcased Tangier’s jazz heritage and reinforced cultural ties between Morocco, Europe, and Africa.
Source: Agence Marocaine De Presse