Restructuring religious realm to guarantee development in healthy conditions, minister

The restructuring of the religious field is a global philosophy aiming at securing spiritual stability and achieving development in healthy conditions said Wednesday Moroccan minister of Habous and Islamic affairs, Toufiq Hjira.

The minister, who was speaking on the occasion of the inauguration of new regional delegates for Islamic affairs and directors in the Habous and Islamic affairs ministry, said this "philosophy seeks the setting up of an ideal policy in Morocco, that would serve as a model to all Islamic countries that are faithful to their values and aspiring to achieve progress."

He said the outlines of this strategy were made explicit in the royal speech addressed last Friday to the Higher Council and Provincial Councils of Ulemas (Scholars).

The sovereign in his capacity as Amir Al Muminin (Commander of the Faithful) announced a three-part plan designed to overhaul and revamp the domain of religious affairs in order to "shield Morocco against the perils of extremism and terrorism."

He said this "comprehensive, multi-faceted and integrated strategy" is meant to "preserve the distinctive Moroccan identity, which is characterized by moderation and tolerance."

This strategy involves restructuring the Ministry for waqf and religious affairs and reconsidering Legislation on places of worship.