In a significant move that strengthens cultural ties between Arabic and Korean literature, the Korean Association of World Literature has announced the appointment of Moroccan poet and writer Dr. (Hon.) Hassane Yarti as the Association’s Vice President with a permanent, lifetime tenure.

According to the official certificate issued by the Association’s Executive Committee in South Korea, this appointment recognizes Dr. Yarti’s distinguished literary career and his profound contributions to enriching the global poetic and literary landscape. His term officially commences in 2026, vesting him with full authority and responsibility to help lead this prestigious international institution.

The Korean Association of World Literature is a renowned organization comprising an elite group of prominent Korean and international poets and academics. It aims to create a global platform for cultural exchange and literary translation across various world languages.

In an initial commentary on the appointment, Dr. (Hon.) Hassane Yarti, based in Spain, is expected to play a pivotal role in activating the Association’s presence within the Arab and European spheres. This appointment opens new horizons for Moroccan and Arab creators to reach audiences in East Asia.

It is noteworthy that the appointment was endorsed and signed by a distinguished group of leading Korean intellectuals, headed by poet Dr. Kang Byeong-Cheol and poet, Honorary Dr. Yang Geum-Hee, along with Poet Dr. Lee Hye Seon, Poet Dr. Koo Myongsook, Poet Ms. Heo Yunjeong, Poet Dr. Kim Sun Young, Poet and CULTURE and PEOPLE CEO Ms. Lee Hae-Kyung, Poet Dr. Lim Shin-young, Poet Dr. Siyoung Doung, Poet Ms. Im Sol Nae, Poet Mr. Lee Hee Kuk, and Poet Ms. Ahn Hye-cho, alongside a selection of prominent cultural figures.

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Read: Italy Honors a Moroccan Writer

The post Hassane Yarti Elevates World Literature Ties first appeared on Sindh Courier.

Rabat

Morocco launched yesterday the 20th edition of the International Nomads Festival n M’Hamid El Ghizlane, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of nomadic communities. The event will feature a diverse program of music, dance, crafts, gastronomy, and traditions, highlighting the vibrancy of Saharan culture, according to the organizers

This year’s lineup promises a musical journey spanning Morocco with the legendary group Nass El Ghiwane, Hungary, with Saïd Tichiti, Algeria, and Mali with Kader Tarhanine and Imarhan Timbuktu. Mohamed Ali Ailla’s Sahrawi melodies will intertwine with the Amazigh repertoire of Tarwa Nayur and the Kurdish sounds of the France-based Mîrkut ensemble.

Beyond music, the festival will address contemporary themes such as environmental preservation and sustainable development in arid and semi-arid regions.

Organizers emphasized the festival’s role in preserving nomadic heritage while fostering new initiatives that promote its transmission, attract visitors, and boost the local economy.

Educational initiatives and awareness programs will also play a key role, focusing on the resilience of nomadic cultures in the face of modern transformations. ‘’t’s a powerful example of how culture can actively contribute to a more inclusive and supportive”, the organizers noted.

Conferences and roundtables will bring together experts, local stakeholders, and visitors, while the nomadic forum will offer digital security workshops to share cybersecurity skills.

Over four nights, the festival will showcase performances by local and international artists, alongside cultural exhibitions featuring traditional crafts, local cuisine, ancestral sports, and Saharan dances.

Published under the International Cooperation Protocol with Middle East Business |Life Magazine, Abu Dhabi

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Read: Do You Remember? – A Poem from Morocco

The post Morocco launches International Nomads Festival first appeared on Sindh Courier.

A soft light, love’s tender meeting,

Let’s dance like the waves, endlessly fleeting.

Niamat Elhamri, a Moroccan writer, shares her poems  

Niamat Elhamri, a Moroccan writer and poet, is Deputy Editor-in-Chief of Barcelona Literary Magazine. General Secretary of the World Writers Union, Member of the Arab Writers Union and Arab Cultural Union. Her published works include “Ouzouf wa Enfessal”, “Shunning and Separation” in English, International anthology: “Whispers Across Languages” and “Stations from Memory” (Encyclopedia of Short Stories), Egypt; Short story collections: “Your Last Melody”, “If Not for Those Borders”, “Venice/Romulus and Remus”, “My Trace Before Departure”, “Sacrificial Offerings”.

TOMORROW’S ENCOUNTER

A meeting of loyalty, a promise sealed,

Lasting till the end, beyond the field,

If tomorrow comes, as fate has willed.

Tomorrow’s encounter…

Family gathered, love’s embrace,

Even the elders, with a gentle grace.

Welcomed with milk, dates, and flowers in bloom,

A day of joy, before vows consume.

Do not mourn yesterday,

For tomorrow makes room.

Tomorrow’s encounter…

A soft light, love’s tender meeting,

Let’s dance like the waves, endlessly fleeting.

A hug of longing, after distance and yearning,

A kiss sweeter than honey, love ever-burning.

Rightfully yours, with dowry and vow,

Tomorrow’s encounter, eternal somehow.

Not like yesterday, of distance and cold,

Let’s live in tomorrow, forever bold.

***

I REMEMBER

The nights of laughter, the evenings of delight,

I remember your love for coffee, without sugar,

I see you at dawn’s first sight,

And when the moon bids the night.

I remember your voice near,

Like a note played on a string clear,

Like the water’s roar against stone sheer,

Quenching every trace in my heart, dear.

Despite the distance and the yearn,

Leaving me in scorching burn, I wait for you,

Like thirsty soil awaiting rain’s return,

Longing for the first drops renew.

I remember the fading of cold,

And returning to you with words so bold,

I write you in poems and prose untold,

Painting our love with letters of light,

Between ages of gold.

Will you come back again?

The heart can no longer bear the pain,

The soul longs for the gaze of your eyes,

And a love that never dies…

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Received from Angela Kosta Executive Director of MIRIADE Magazine, Academic, journalist, writer, poet, essayist, literary critic, editor, translator, promoter

The post Tomorrow’s encounter – Poetry from Morocco first appeared on Sindh Courier.

Do you remember?

That years have passed

And I still chant loyalty as my motto?

Do not forget,

And be with me

So, I can be for you

A green branch that refuses to turn yellow.

Hassane Yarti, a Moroccan writer based in Barcelona, Spain, shares his poem

Hassane Yarti, a Moroccan writer based in Barcelona, Spain, is renowned for his significant contributions to literature and culture. He holds memberships in esteemed organizations such as the Union of Arab Writers and the Arab Elite Union for Poetry and Literature, reflecting his influential presence in the literary community. As the president of the Al-Nibras Association for Culture and Arts, Yarti has been at the forefront of promoting cultural initiatives and artistic expression. His dedication to literature led him to found the Barcelona Literary Magazine. Hassane Yarti’s work has been widely published across various esteemed magazines and newspapers globally and has authored numerous books across different genres, showcasing his versatility and depth as a writer. Hassane Yarti continues to contribute to the literary world with several forthcoming works. The impact of Yarti’s writing extends globally, with his works translated into multiple languages, including English, French, Italian, Spanish, Korean, Chinese, Albanian, Hindi, Bengali, Greek and Turkish.

DO YOU REMEMBER?

Do you remember?

When we were young

One day I sat alone and made a decision

I came out of the silence of hearts

I wrote on all paths

“I love you,” and I said it aloud

Do you remember?

How were we?

And where were we?

How many times have I visited you

And repeated it over and over?

Do you remember?

The beginning…

And the eagerness of a newborn child

The breeze of the dear café,

The mail letters

And our bewildered spirits?

Do you remember?

Our beautiful love,

The large book of passion

And our drunken eyes?

Do you remember the mornings,

The passing of noon,

The afternoon meetings,

And how we never drew the curtain over our windows?

Do you remember?

That years have passed

And I still chant loyalty as my motto?

Do not forget,

And be with me

So, I can be for you

A green branch that refuses to turn yellow.

__________________

Received from Angela Kosta Executive Director of MIRIADE Magazine, Academic, journalist, writer, poet, essayist, literary critic, editor, translator, promoter

The post Do You Remember? – A Poem from Morocco first appeared on Sindh Courier.

Renowned Moroccan poet and writer Mohamed Ellaghafi says ‘Writing is an intrinsic part of humanity.’

Interviewed by: Hassane Yarti

Mohamed Ellaghafi is the founder and current president of the Moroccan Creators University, as well as the founder of the National Poetry Award in Morocco. Over his career, he has published more than fifteen books, including poetry collections and short stories. His work has graced significant national and Arab poetry forums, solidifying his reputation as one of the pioneers of modern poetry in Morocco. His literary journey began in the early 1980s when he founded the “Five Senses” poetry movement, an artistic endeavor that aligned with the trajectory of modernity in Moroccan literature.

Ellaghafi’s works have transcended borders, being translated into several languages, including English, French, Persian, German, Albanian, Italian, and Korean.

H. Yarti: First of all, how does Mohamed Ellaghafi introduce himself to the reader?

Mohamed E: I am a human being striving to affirm my humanity through writing and serving the universe in a humane way. My journey in cultural struggle has spanned over forty years, and in all this time, my focus has always been on exploring and expressing the depths of human experience. Writing is my way of communicating with the world, and it’s through this medium that I seek to make my humble contribution to the betterment of our collective existence.

H. Yarti: As both a writer and a human being, do you see any distinction between the two roles?

Mohamed. E: For me, there is no distinction between being a writer and being a human. Writing is an intrinsic part of my humanity. The opposite of this is the ignorance that some people have toward life and its true essence. To write is to live, to feel, to understand, and to express. It is an extension of being human. Therefore, to separate the two would be to misunderstand the fundamental nature of what it means to be alive.

H. Yarti: Can you tell us about your very first text? What sparked the inspiration that has carried you to this day?

Mohamed. E: first text was an incomplete love letter. I wrote it with the intent of sending it to a girl who captivated my thoughts, but in the end, I never sent it. I wasn’t satisfied with my style back then, so I kept refining my words. This process of writing and rewriting evolved into personal reflections and later into structured classical texts. It was in 1984 that I founded the “Five Senses Club” for poetic creativity, marking the formal beginning of my literary journey.

H. Yarti: Do you consider your audience when you write? What type of reader do you envision following your work?

Mohamed. E: be honest, I never think about the reader when I write, and I still don’t concern myself with this notion. My writing is deeply personal; it’s a reflection of my inner world, my daily life, and my psychological states. Interestingly, even though I write for myself, it often resonates with others as if I am expressing their own thoughts and feelings. This connection is unintentional but perhaps inevitable when one writes authentically.

H. Yarti: How do you approach language in your poetry? How do you master it to lead it directly toward the poem?

Mohamed. E: Rhe early stages of my career, I believed that writing came to me naturally, as if the poet had special rituals and a unique kind of madness. This was during the years of rebellion and ideological writing. However, my perspective has since evolved. Now, I see writing as an integral part of my being. It’s not something that I summon or control; rather, it’s a mutual process where I write and am written by the language. There’s no need for ritual or madness – writing is as natural as any daily instinct.

H. Yarti: Has literary criticism been fair to your work?

Mohamed. E: Believe the first person to write about my work was the great philosopher and poet, Dr. Mohamed Aziz Lahbabi, in the early 1990s. His article appeared in Al-Alam newspaper, and his recognition of my work was deeply meaningful. Since then, many other prominent voices have discussed my literary journey, and I am proud of this recognition. However, I have never sought validation or flattered anyone for praise. The attention my work has received has always come as a surprise, which, in my view, is a form of genuine recognition without any pretense.

H. Yarti: How do you assess the current Moroccan literary scene?

Mohamed. E: Compare the Moroccan literary scene to the broader Arab and Western landscapes. There are creators who work with deep awareness and meticulous study, laying the foundation for a literary project that deserves attention and praise. These individuals are contributing significantly to our cultural heritage. On the other hand, there are those who have been influenced only by what they see on social media. These individuals often write without depth, believing in the superficial validation of random comments and likes. It’s a mixed scene, but there is certainly a core of serious, dedicated writers who are making important contributions.

H. Yarti: Can you share any details about your upcoming literary projects?

Mohamed. E: We have several projects in the pipeline, which we will announce soon. These include my personal creative works and also some global associative initiatives that I believe will surprise and invigorate the cultural scene. These projects are still under development, but I’m confident that they will make a significant impact when they are unveiled.

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Hassane Yarti is a poet, writer, translator and the editor of Barcelona Literary Magazine.

Received from Angela Kosta Executive Director of MIRIADE Magazine, Academic, journalist, writer, poet, essayist, literary critic, editor, translator, promoter

The post To write is to live, to feel, to understand, and to express – Mohamed Ellaghafi first appeared on Sindh Courier.

Rabat Correspondent

In an important cultural gesture, the Academy of the Kingdom of Morocco, in partnership with the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA), organized a round table titled “Africa celebrates Wole Soyinka in Morocco,” at the academy’s headquarters, to mark the 90th birthday of Nigerian writer Wole Soyinka, the first African to won the Nobel Prize in Literature (1986).

During this occasion, Professor Soyinka received the shield of the Academy of the Kingdom of Morocco from Abdeljalil Al-Hajamari, Permanent Secretary of the Academy, for his “decades of literary experience, during which he championed creativity on the continent, freedom, and the rejection of racism within the African component, which enabled him to win the Nobel Prize for literature about 38 years ago.”

Poetess Margarita Al President of the World Organization of Writers – also presented WOW Gold Medal to the great writer “for his contribution to the development of world literature.” Soyinka also received the shield of the Association of Authors of Nigeria (ANA).

The massive ceremony was attended by members of the Academy, the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA), in the presence of the Secretary General of the association, Dr. Wale Okediran, along with Moroccan writers and university students, in the Great Hall of the Academy.

The Kingdom’s guest was poetically celebrated by the voices of male and female Moroccan university students who performed some of Soyinka’s poems. Immortal, as mentioned by the editor of the Hespress report published by Abdelaziz Ikram, the participation of Omaima Benali and Daha Mestati from the Moulay Ismail University in Meknes, and Nabila Talal and Roquia Sabri from the Hassan II University in Mohammedia, while Narges Bakkali and Linasoa Mahirinernina represented the International University of Rabat.

The session celebrating Wole Soyinka began with a speech by Abdul-Jalil Al-Hajamari, Permanent Secretary of the Kingdom’s Academy, during which he presented the manifestations of Soyinka’s literary excellence on the grounds that he is “the most prominent contributor to thinking about issues of humanity and the African continent, and also as an exceptional literary figure who hails from an exceptional geography.”

Al-Hajamari stressed that “it is very important to hold such an event that is of interest to Wole Soyinka and literary creativity in Africa in general, which falls within the framework of the interests of the Kingdom Academy and the manifestations of Morocco opening its doors to various African literary and cultural references, as well as being one of the moments of recognition of creators and the advancement of various generations to get to know Soyinka.”

The Permanent Secretary of the Kingdom Academy returned to point out that the Nobel Laureate of Literature remains “a researcher and investor in culture and literature, a defender throughout his decades of experience of freedom, an opponent of racism and apartheid, and a creative link between the past, the present and the future, in addition to defending creative writing and creators at the continental level.” Considering poetry as “the most important elements in daily life, which confirms the importance of celebrating African creators with the African Writers Association.”

For his part, Eugene Ebode, Director of the Chair of African Literature at the Kingdom Academy, stressed that “Soyinka is an exceptional man and a great writer whose literary strength was confirmed after he won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1986. He deserves full attention and appreciation, which is what the Kingdom Academy does, which encourages creativity and works to value it whenever possible.” “It’s about the continent’s creators.”

Ebode continued: “The writer we are talking about today opened the door to creativity on the continent, and it is very natural that he is among us today within the Kingdom Academy, especially if we recall the intellectual aspects that he touches on in his literary works and publications throughout the decades of his experience in this field, especially when he worked On the themes of freedom and power in a creative way.”

While he spoke at length about the creative aspects of Soyinka’s personality, the Director of Arts, Chair of African Literature, considered that “Wole’s intelligence also appeared when he welcomed the participation of creative people in this ceremony in order to provide them with the opportunity, as this, according to him, remains a literary sharing between creative people and students and an example that serves creativity,” pointing out that “Humanity requires recognition of this African stature,” he described today’s event as “celebrating an exceptional man within the confines of an exceptional academy.”

From his standpoint as a university professor in the United States of America, Bill Effendi praised “the Kingdom Academy’s initiative to organize this important event that celebrates the career of Wole Soyinka on his eighty-ninth birthday.” He considered this “a celebration of one of the most prominent sons of the African continent, given that he is a leader of continental literature and a role model.” For the creators of the new generation.”

Effendi added: “As those interested in literary affairs on the continent, we consider that Soyinka remains a cultural, creative and humanitarian reservoir and a reference for those interested in literature at the continental level. He is a supporter of the truth and deserves to be taken as a role model for creativity,” noting that “it is beautiful and important that such demonstrations are held in the Kingdom, and this is what both Morocco and the Kingdom Academy should be thankful for,” noting at the same time that “Soyinka also remains one of the most prominent sons of the continent.” “Whose creativity and literary clarity have been praised by international political leaders in their many works.”

This event comes in the presence of a number of prominent figures in the cultural, academic and diplomatic circles, and reflects the wise policy of His Majesty King Mohammed VI towards the African continent, which aims to enhance African integration and consolidate the bonds of South-South cooperation, based on the unity of destiny and cultural diversity of the African peoples.

The Academy of the Kingdom of Morocco aims, through this meeting, to highlight African literary creativity at the global level and to value the rich cultural heritage of the African continent, by highlighting the career of one of its most prominent literary figures, Wole Soyinka, who enriched the cultural scene with his works that discuss crucial issues in a literary style. High, characterized by sarcasm and humor.

Margarita Al, President of the World Writers Organization, participated in the official reception at the Royal Moroccan Academy in Rabat, and during the ceremony she conveyed her happiness to WOW members: “This is history now. It is the history of the World Organization of Writers. We have honored Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka. It is an honor.  I would like to congratulate the genius writer on his ninetieth birthday.”

Wole Soyinka praised the Kingdom Academy’s celebration of him, and “the Moroccan interest in the continent’s creators and highlights Rabat’s keenness to interact with its African surroundings and depth, especially in the cultural and literary aspect.”

Soyinka said, in his speech as part of the Kingdom Academy’s celebration of his birthday, which falls in the middle of this month, that “this initiative represents a second opportunity to strengthen relations between Rabat and Africa on the cultural level,” adding: “My relationship with this country is not born today, but dates back to history.”

The writer continued: “It is very nice to come with you today while you are celebrating me here in Morocco, and it is also nice to hear your testimonies. I am not here to give lessons or notes, but rather to hear the creative poets and writers of Morocco and Africa in general, and to hear youth poems as well in the words of “The students who are with us here.”

“They often ask me about the purpose of all my literary experience, as I am today on the verge of ninety years of age, but I usually answer that I lived an experience that enabled me to use literature and writing as a means of expression, especially in Nigeria, where I witnessed a number of stages that witnessed events affecting humanity.” In general,” Soyinka continues, before stressing that “today’s demonstration deserves to re-ask a number of questions about the relationship of literature to rights and humanity.”

Speaking about his experience before members of the Kingdom Academy and the Pan African Writers Association, the Nigerian writer said: “What motivated me over the past years is that I was inspired by a number of elements, including the duality of power and freedom, which African society in general knows is a set of aspects that prompt more attention to it.” He added, “Humanity remains directly connected to these two elements, especially as we face rapid developments globally.”

The winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1986 affirmed that “the world today knows the spread of domination and encourages it, at a time when this cannot be allowed or encouraged by colonialism, but rather by stimulating and supporting ways of coexistence and humanity, because in the end class cannot and cannot create for us an ideal society.” It also creates social development for us.”

Referring to what is happening in a number of African countries, he returned to emphasizing “the necessity of rejecting dictatorship and tyranny, no matter how autocratic or secular the state is, as well as uniting peoples instead of distinguishing them from each other by adopting certain determinants, especially the religious determinant, which we must not differentiate by using it.” Among members of society, in the end we remain people.”

Speaking about tyranny and the dangers of power, Soyinka asserted that “earlier, Nigeria was experiencing a struggle for power between factions and political and irregular organizations, which remained the opposite of freedom and humanity, which I had always proposed in my writings throughout my experience in the past decades.”

In expressions of joy and gratitude in front of hundreds of people who filled the great hall of the Kingdom Academy’s headquarters, the Nigerian literary icon recorded that “it is a matter of pride to be celebrated here in Morocco in front of the masses of creatives and writers on the continent, which contributes to strengthening our cultural relations and developing our common values,” and added: “And It was important for Morocco to show its attention to the continent’s creators, but we regret that African writers still do not benefit from privileges and incentives, which is something we cannot accept as we seek development.” They considered the event “a good opportunity for Morocco to strengthen its cultural relations with abroad.” It is important that this is his victory for humanity.”

It is noteworthy that Wole Soyinka, born in Abeokuta, Nigeria, on July 13, 1934, is considered one of the most prominent playwrights in Africa. He studied in Nigeria and England, and gained practical experience in the field of theater through his work at the Royal Court Theater in London.

Soyinka returned to Nigeria in 1960 to contribute to the development of Nigerian theatre, in addition to his academic work in various Nigerian universities. He was imprisoned during the Nigerian Civil War, and documented this experience in his novel, “The Man Died.”

Soyinka’s plays have been published in Africa, Europe and America, the most famous of which are “The Road” and “The Lion and the Jewel”. He also published four collections of poetry, and a second novel in 1973. Soyinka currently works as a professor at the American University in Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates.

Read: African Scholar Falola Conferred Honorary Degree at University of Pretoria

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The post Wole Soyinka in Morocco: An international honor for the African writer first appeared on Sindh Courier.

Mohamed Ellaghafi, an eminent Moroccan poet and writer, known as one of the pioneers of modern poetry of Morocco, shares his poem

Mohamed Ellaghafi a Moroccan poet, writer, and publisher, was born on December 7, 1960, in Casablanca. He is the founder and current president of the University of Moroccan Creators and the founder of the National Poetry Award in Morocco. He has published more than fifteen books, ranging from poetry to short stories, and has participated in significant national and Arab poetry gatherings. He is considered one of the pioneers of modern poetry in Morocco, with his beginnings tracing back to the early 1980s as the founder of the (Five Senses) poetic movement, an artistic movement that emerged to align with the course of modernity.

Currently, he publishes in the Qatari magazine Doha, the London-based newspaper Al-Zaman, and the Egyptian magazine Al-Ahram. He was also honored by the Moroccan Ministry of Culture in 2019, in Beirut and Cairo in 2014, and by several prestigious associations both nationally and internationally.

His works have been translated into several languages, including English, French, Persian, German, and Italian.

THIS POEM Eats From My Flesh 

This poem eats from my flesh

While you drink my blood,

O breaths steeped

In sorrow.

I will not blame the sun for setting,

I will not turn my neck backwards

As I count the minutes of my life.

No one will believe me if I say

There’s a great terror in my head

And a hell in my chest.

No one will believe me,

Not the courier of love

Nor the beloved lamented in my papers.

This poem eats from my flesh

While I tear down the continent of my heart

Searching for a title

For a new draft.

This poem eats from my flesh,

My black blood boils between your lips

And upon the roadside of your breasts

The pain of the day sighs.

This poem eats from my flesh,

And the earth, and the beloved,

And the clouds that rain from my eyes.

Between you and me, a thousand breezes and a faint whisper,

And this noise obscures the meanings.

I almost buried what was left of the remnants of my bones

If not for the poem’s return to its senses.

I passed through here contemplating the shores,

Smiling at all this emptiness

That contains nothing but your shadow.

I see in the froth of the waves

The whiteness of your heart, O sea.

This poem eats from my flesh

While you drink my black blood.

Nothing remains of this thin body

But bones floating on the surface

Of my flowing tears.

This poem eats from my flesh

While you drink my black blood

By the shore,

The sky is open and the sea stretches out,

Slaughtering me from vein to vein.

I wish I were dust,

And you were sifting me with the salt of your heart.

This poem eats from my flesh

While you drink my blood,

So what remains at a distance from the eye!

Is a mirage and questions for the wind!

That didn’t bring your messages.

This poem eats from my flesh

While you drink my blood.

Has the evening not come yet!

For us to smile together on the surface of the water

And wait for the wind to merge our faces

And for us to fade away slowly

Like the clouds at noon?

I am skilled at singing like a caged bird,

And also skilled at standing on one leg

Like a sad heron.

Sad,

Both I and the sea,

Each of us battling,

Its waves visible,

And my waves internal.

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Prepared by Angela Kosta Academic, journalist, writer, poet, essayist, literary critic, editor, translator

The post A Poem from Morocco that eats the flesh first appeared on Sindh Courier.

Dr. Abdeljabbar Choukri, a psychologist, sociologist, poet and writer from Casablanca, Morocco shares his poetry  

Dr. Abdeljabbar Choukri, a psychologist, sociologist, poet and writer, was born in Rabat, Morocco. He is the holder of a Doctorate with a very distinction in sociology from Mohammed V University, Faculty of Arts and Human Sciences, Rabat/Morocco. He also holds a Doctorate in Psychology with distinction from DIANA International College in the United Kingdom / Britain, and a Doctorate in Philosophy with distinction from SMRT International College, UK. He is the holder the first honorary doctorate in literature (poetry and novel) from the Arab Academy of Literature and second honorary doctorate in literature from the Hazar Academy for Poetry and Literature; a diploma in Education Sciences from the Faculty of Education Sciences from the Faculty of Education Sciences in Rabat, Mohammed V University, Rabat / Morocco; TCF French language diploma; a diploma in the French language DAKF, levels of the European Institute for Teaching French Languages in the European Union, from the French Cultural Center in Casablanca/Morocco.  He also holds a bachelor’s degree in English language and English literature in college, Arts and Human Sciences, Ain Shaqi, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco. He published many books in psychology and sociology, and poetry collections. He is author of many articles in Arabic, French and English newspapers.

DREAMS OF SUFFERING

There is no way out of complaining

Except seeing existence smiling

There is no solution of crying

Except wiping the tears

There is no outlet of sadness

Except to fill the soul with joy

There is no collapse of despair

Except you cling to hope

There is no way to get rid of depression

Except by indulging in laughter

There is no pleasure in life

Except the giving of love

There is no, no and no

And there is except,

Except and except.

But in a moment of the time

I go to embrace the night

I complain to it my worries

I bring back my memories

From the past since my childhood

I find nothing only fluctuations in feelings

I find nothing only fluctuations in behavior

I find nothing only fluctuations in promises

I remember when l was a child

My mother tells me Arab stories

One Thousand and One Nights

About Shahrayar and Scheherazade

About the enchanted palace

About Beauty of princess and the Beast

I find myself navigating

In my mother’s stories in Arab tales

She talks to me and talks to me

Until I fall asleep in deep sleep.

***

THE EGO AND THE OTHER

The first existential storm facing

My Ego in front of otherness

With all its manifestations

In existence we appear

Each other during our life

At a moment of my conscience

I discover that the otherness

Moving by through the persons

And through the words and things

In the bottom of my existence

There is the Ego and the other

The other is me, but who is not me

The other like me, but he is different to me

The other exists out of my Ego

And out of my awareness

The ‘Other’ is another Ego

He has his other self-objective,

Existence in the universe

He has his own consciousness

Like me

He has his own freedom

Like me

He has his own will

Like me

Everything we say about Ego

We say it also about ‘Other’

And in the opposite

Everything we say about ‘Other’

We say it also about the Ego

That means there are a dual entities

In the existence: the Ego and the ‘Other’

In order to live together

For eternity and forever

The Ego and the other

Have the same human being

The other has the same human body

Like me

The other has the same feeling

Like me

Through otherness l feel myself

Through otherness l hug the existence

Through otherness l feel

The pain of the existence

Through otherness l immerse

Myself in human concerns

The Ego establish with the ‘Other’

Authentic communication

Then there is the dialogue between them

This dialogue leads

To presenting arguments

And evidence for an issue

The philosopher Plato

Shows that the contradictory dialogue

Is a good way to obtain

An agreement of conscience

They explain their reasons

To each other

And forces themselves to examine

The other’s reasons

This dialogue between

The Ego and the ‘Other’

Leads to the cooperation

Two conjoined double existences

The Ego and the Other

As philosopher Heidegger said

Side by side In different worlds

Each one has his own experience

The process of existence

Is imposed at each other

Without theirs will

If they want to coexist each other

They should benefit from

Each other’s experience

And continue the process of existence

Then The relationship between

The Ego and the Other

It is a cooperative relationship

In this confrontation in dialogue

born interaction and attraction

Between the Ego and the Other

Which lead exactly to the benevolence

Between Ego and Other

As Aristotle said

This benevolence leads to friendship

The friendship is love for each other

And wish well both of them

But in the brightness the otherness

Appears clearly In front of human eyes

There is no puns and disappearances

Every behavior expresses its meaning

Every action or event appears

With its Symbolism

Everything becomes justified

In the name of love and humanity

In the name of interest and necessity

In the name of logic and reason

The Ego in front of the ‘Other’

Each of them has his independent being

Independent freedom

Independent will

Independent mind

And independent decision

In this independent being appears

The respect for their own being

In other hand the humanity itself

Is the dignity as

Philosopher Kant said

When l respect the dignity

Of the other l respect my humanity

And when l insulted the dignity

Of the Other In the same time

I insult my humanity

The dignity according to Kant is

Not turning a person into

A tool or means for others to use

Dignity is not being subject

To the guardianship of another

Is not loss of will,

Is not loss Freedom

Is not loss thinking.

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Prepared by Angela Kosta Academic, journalist, writer, poet, essayist, literary critic, editor, translator

The post Dreams of Suffering – Poetry from Morocco first appeared on Sindh Courier.

 Poet Mr. Kang Byeong-Cheol, a Korean author, poet, translator, is holder of a Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science degree. He was born in Jeju City, South Korea in 1964, and began his writing career in 1993. His first short story, “Song of Shuba,” was published when he was twenty-nine years old.

In 2005, Kang published a collection of short stories and has since won four literature awards, publishing over eight books in total. He was a member of The Writers in Prison Committee (WiPC) of PEN International from 2009 to 2014. From 2018 to 2022, he served as Secretary General of the Jeju Unification Education Center. Prior to that he was Specially Appointed Professor at Jeju International University from 2016 to 2018, a Research Professor at Chungnam National University National Defense Institute from 2013 to 2016, a Senior Researcher at the Society of Ieodo Research from 2010 to 2017, and CEO of Online News Media Jejuin News from 2010 to 2013.

Kang also works as an editorial writer for Jeminilbo, a newspaper in Jeju City, Korea. Currently, he holds the position of Vice President at The Korean Institute for Peace and Cooperation.

A Thought from Morocco

In a country where the sun sets,

The beautiful sunset makes me forget myself.

After witnessing the sun dip below the horizon in the desert,

I gaze up at the sky.

Brilliant stars pour into my eyes—

What a wonderful world.

In the desert, where camels walk, an oasis hides somewhere.

A stream winds through the Atlas Mountains,

Water flowing from the oasis,

Nurturing the land where date palms ripen.

Just as today, tomorrow too, the Star of Solomon will shine brightly.

***

모로코에서의 한 생각

해가 지는 나라에서

아름다운 노을이 나 자신을 잊게 하네

사막에서 지는 해를 본 후 하늘을 본다

저 찬란한 별들이 내 눈으로 쏟아지네

얼마나 멋진 세상인가!

낙타들이 걷는 사막, 어딘가에는 오아시스가 있다.

아틀라스산맥을 따라 흐르는 물줄기

오아시스에서 물이 솟아 흐르고

대추야자가 익어가는 땅

오늘처럼, 내일도, 솔로몬의 별은 찬란히 빛나리라

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Also read: She is crying – Poetry from Jeju Island

The post A Thought from Morocco – Poetry from Korea first appeared on Sindh Courier.

Abu Dhabi

The fourth meeting of the Higher Committee of the Industrial Partnership for Sustainable Economic Development was held in Manama, Bahrain In the presence of Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain. During the proceedings, the Kingdom of Morocco became the fifth country to join the partnership aimed at strengthening regional industrial integration.

The meetings were held with the participation of Abdullah bin Adel Fakhro, Bahrain’s Minister of Industry and Commerce, Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, the Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Engineer Ahmed Samir Saleh, Egypt’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Yousef Al Shamali, Jordan’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply, and Riyad Mazour, Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade.

The Executive Committee of the Industrial Partnership for Sustainable Economic Development held meetings with officials, including industry and trade undersecretaries from the partner countries, on 10 January 2024 to discuss the progress of current projects and new proposals.

The industrial partnership has received robust support from member countries since its launch in Abu Dhabi in May 2022. President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan praised the partnership’s role as a framework for cooperation and integration in the region, accelerating sustainable development, strengthening crisis resilience and increasing self-sufficiency in critical areas such as food, health, energy and industry among others. The launch ceremony was witnessed by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court, Dr. Bisher Al-Khasawneh, Prime Minister of Jordan and Dr. Moustafa Madbouly, Prime Minister of Egypt.

During the meeting, UAE’s W Motors, the strategic partner of NWTN Motors, and Jordan’s Manaseer Group signed an agreement to establish an electric car manufacturing plant in Jordan, with an investment value of $80 million. Additionally, Manaseer Group and Bahrain’s Alba signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to supply 13,000 tons of aluminum fluoride annually, contributing to an import substitution value of $20 million. Bahrain’s Alba also signed an MoU with Jordan Phosphate Mines for silica supply, contributing to an import substitution value of $66 million.

Bahrain Steel signed a supply agreement with Emirates Steel, which will purchase 2 million tons of raw materials over five years, valued at $2 billion. A MoU was also signed between the UAE’s Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) and Bahrain’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce leveraging the UAE’s National In-Country Value (ICV) Program. The initiative is aimed at sharing best practices with respect to local content programs.

Abdullah bin Adel Fakhro, Bahrain’s Minister of Industry and Commerce, stressed the Bahraini government’s commitment to the development of the industrial sector, embodied by the event being hosted in Manama under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain. He pointed to the event’s role in achieving industrial integration among the member countries in line with Bahrain’s Industrial Sector Strategy 2022-26.

He said: “The meeting saw the signing of a memorandum of cooperation under the National In-Country Program between the Ministry of Industry and Commerce and the UAE’s Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, a key industrial enabler for procurement competitiveness and import substitution in both countries.”

He welcomed the addition of Morocco to the partnership, which is a key industrial and economic player in the region. In his opening remarks at the meeting, Dr. Al Jaber relayed the greetings of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, as well as his wishes for the partnership’s further success, especially in strengthening relations between countries to leverage competitive advantages.

He said: “We welcome the Kingdom of Morocco’s addition to the partnership, given its leading industrial and economic status, and achievements across various sectors – particularly industry – which is vital to supporting investment opportunities. In the UAE, we believe that forming strategic partnerships is a fundamental pillar of achieving national economic, social, and developmental objectives. This integrated industrial partnership, originating in Abu Dhabi in May 2022, is a model of successful regional partnerships.

“We are pleased to witness the announcement and signing of five new projects and export agreements in priority sectors, with a total value of approximately $2.2 billion, enhancing cooperation between the UAE’s Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology and Bahrain’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce in line with the National ICV Program.”

He continued: “The new projects solidify our countries’ ability to integrate, build a common industrial base, support the flexibility of supply chains, reduce production costs, enhance research and development, and train a new generation in the industrial and technological fields. Additionally, they contribute to creating thousands of jobs in the industrial sector. We look forward to launching more innovative projects to achieve the partnership’s strategic goals.”

He noted: “The partnership has made significant progress in encouraging cooperation and boosting industrial partnership opportunities. We are confident that it will contribute to enhancing integration and growth in the industrial sector on the regional level, supporting efforts for sustainable economic development.”

He added: “Strengthening industrial cooperation and coordination efforts between our countries achieves several goals, including supporting sustainable economic development, creating more investment opportunities in the region, increasing the industrial sector’s contribution to our countries’ GDP, supporting import substitution, promoting self-sufficiency, and empowering future industries through advanced technologies, research and development.”

He concluded: “The UAE hosted COP28 in December, which achieved unprecedented success, embodied by the historic UAE Consensus, which signaled a new era in global climate action. The plan aims to keep 1.5°C within reach by reducing emissions while creating opportunities for sustainable economic and social growth. Here, I would like to emphasize the importance of our collective role in supporting this agreement by decarbonizing the industrial sector, adopting renewable energy solutions, promoting the adoption of clean technology solutions in our projects and leveraging significant opportunities in sustainable manufacturing.”

Yousef Al Shamali, Jordan’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply welcomed each of the ministers and emphasized the partnership’s importance in accelerating sustainable economic development in the region.

He said: “The partnership is a regional model for enhancing sustainable economic growth and development through strategic planning. A key aspect of the partnership is leveraging raw materials in Arab countries, which represent 75% of their global exports, to build an industrial system that uplifts economies.”

Engineer Ahmed Samir Saleh, Egypt’s Minister of Industry and Trade, welcomed Morocco to the partnership, stressing that Egypt is looking forward to the cooperation and to building upon the country’s competitive advantages, vision and investments.

He emphasized Egypt’s commitment to the projects launched under the partnership, which will benefit from each partner countries’ industrial capabilities and contribute to sustainable economic growth amid a turbulent global economy.

Riyad Mazour, Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade, said: “Joining the industrial partnership is in line with the vision of King Mohammed VI of Morocco, to strengthen cooperation and achieve greater economic development. It will contribute to sustainable economic development; it also represents an opportunity for us to further integrate and develop projects that generate growth and employment opportunities for national talent.”

Morocco is expected to bring significant value to the partnership, given the country’s advanced industrial capabilities, particularly in the automotive, renewable energy, aviation, textiles, pharmaceuticals, phosphate, mining and food industries, in addition to its strong talent base, advanced infrastructure, and global partnerships.

Morocco’s GDP exceeded $134 billion in 2022. The country’s industrial sector provides more than 1 million jobs, through some 121,000 companies. Additionally, there has been an increase in foreign direct investment (FDI) in the manufacturing sector.

Morocco has entered several strategic agreements with other countries, including free trade agreements providing access to more than 100 countries representing 2.3 billion consumers. Ongoing industrial modernization and development plans have enhanced its competitiveness, boosting investor confidence and establishing Morocco as a regional destination for manufacturing and industrial investment.

Industry is a key sector in Morocco and has seen significant development in recent years with a focus on automotive, renewable energy, aviation, textiles, pharmaceuticals, phosphates, mining, and food industries.

Morocco is accelerating the sector’s development, implementing a new industrial policy aimed at increasing its contribution to GDP to 23% by 2030, creating more than 500,000 new job opportunities, and investing billions of dollars in renewable energy projects.

Published under International Cooperation Protocol with Middle East Business  

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