SIEL: A Growing Enthusiasm for Books and Parallel Cultural Activities, According to Bensaid
Growing Enthusiasm for Books at the International Book and Publishing Salon
The International Book and Publishing Salon (SIEL) continues to gain popularity year after year, highlighting a rising enthusiasm for books and accompanying cultural activities. This was stated on Thursday in Rabat by Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, the Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication.
In comments to the press during the official opening of SIEL, which was presided over by His Royal Highness Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan, the minister noted that book sales at last year’s event exceeded 100 million dirhams, reflecting the significant public interest in this grand cultural gathering.
Furthermore, Bensaid emphasized that the decision to designate France as the guest of honor for this edition is part of efforts to strengthen cultural exchanges between the two countries. He recalled Morocco’s upcoming role as the guest of honor at the Paris Book Festival in 2025.
Additionally, Bensaid pointed out that the 31st edition of SIEL is a unique opportunity to introduce French publishers to the Moroccan audience and to showcase the work of Moroccan intellectuals residing in France, highlighting the strong cultural presence of the Moroccan diaspora in the country.
This year, the salon features the participation of 891 exhibitors from Morocco and 60 countries across the Arab world, Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas. A rich and diverse documentary collection is on display, encompassing a wide range of knowledge fields and various forms of creation and learning, with more than 130,000 titles and over 3 million copies available.
