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The Kingdom of Morocco awards the key to the city of Fez to the poet Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain.

January 21, 2018

         The city of Fes, in the Kingdom of Morocco, has decided to honor the poet Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain by awarding him the key to the city. This prestigious recognition comes in acknowledgment of his prominent role as a leading figure in the Arab and Islamic worlds, known for his engagement in issues concerning his nation. Furthermore, the honor also acknowledges his efforts in supporting a culture of peace and promoting intercultural dialogue.

         The city praised Albabtain for building cultural bridges with the Arab Maghreb region, and commended his numerous activities in the Kingdom of Morocco, including organizing seminars, conferences, and nurturing relationships with intellectuals and scholars through the Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain Cultural Foundation.

         The formal ceremony to honor Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain will take place on the upcoming Saturday, the 27th of January. Distinguished guests attending the event include the Mayor of Fes, Idris Al-Azami, the Moroccan historian Dr. Abdelhak El Merini, and the Minister of Culture, Dr. Mohamed El-Aaraj, as well as various parliamentary, official, and academic figures.

         During the ceremony, speeches will be delivered by President Omar Al-Subhi of Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Dr. Amal Jalal, President of Al Qarawiyyin University, and Mohammed Al-Qabbaj, Honorary President of the Fes-Saiss Cultural Association. Testimonials will also be given by Dr. Abderrahmane Tankoul, Dr. Ahmed Mufdi, Dr. Louisa Bolpers, and Dr. Abdullah Bensar Al-Alawi.

         In response to the honor, Abdulaziz Saud Albabtain expressed his deep gratitude for this recognition, considering it a noble gesture that reflects the wise leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. He noted that His Majesty had previously graciously sponsored the session organized by the Foundation in Marrakech under the title "Abu Tammam Session," further praising the city of Fes, its mayor, Mr. Idris Al-Azami, and the scholars and intellectuals in the city.

         Furthermore, Albabtain added: "This recognition emanates from the cultural circles' interest and eagerness in the Kingdom of Morocco to celebrate the bridges we establish between the Arab East and its West. They aspire for communication and possess a high culture. Many among them have faithfully conveyed our Arabic culture to the West and disseminated it there, with a sense of pride."

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