Italy and Morocco, culture as a bridge of friendship

Minister Giuli and President Qotbi strengthen cultural cooperation: Matera and Tetouan to be Mediterranean Capitals of Culture and Dialogue in 2026

ROME – “Culture is a pillar of friendship between Italy and Morocco.” With these words, the Minister of Culture Alessandro Giuli summarized the spirit of the meeting with Mehdi Qotbi, President of the National Foundation of Museums of Morocco, dedicated to strengthening cultural ties between the two countries.

At the heart of the discussion was the desire to develop joint projects in view of 2026, the year in which Matera and Tetouan will be recognized as Mediterranean Capitals of Culture and Dialogue. An opportunity that, in the spirit of the Mattei Plan for Africa, aims to transform cultural cooperation into a tool for mutual understanding and sustainable development.

President Qotbi confirmed the willingness of the Moroccan Museums Foundation to collaborate on the program of events that will unite the two cities, symbols of a Mediterranean that dialogues through art and creativity.

During the working meetings, which also involved Emanuela Bruni, President of the MAXXI Foundation, Massimo Osanna, Director General for Museums at the MiC, and Fabrizio Magani, Director General of Archaeology, Fine Arts, and Landscape, new exhibition projects to be realized in the coming months in Italy and Morocco were discussed.

A program for the exchange of experiences and training in the field of artistic restoration was also outlined, aimed at enhancing the Moroccan archaeological heritage and consolidating collaboration between museum and academic institutions of the two countries.

A path that confirms culture as fertile ground for diplomacy and friendship, capable of uniting different histories and identities in a shared vision of a Mediterranean future.