Essaouira Convivial University discusses development issues

The preservation of the heritage of the Moroccan Atlantic town of Essaouira and the city's sustained development are the major themes to be debated during the third edition of the Convivial University of Essaouira, to be held next November 5-8.

The four-day encounter, to be attended by experts from several countries, will also focus on the Atlantic dimension of Morocco.

The meeting will assess the role that the town of Essaouira, 470 km south of Rabat, has always played in Morocco's overture onto the Atlantic Ocean and examine ways to ensure a sustained development in the ancient town, while preserving its identity, Andre Azoulay, advisor to King Hassan II, said at a press conference.

Azoulay, founding president of the Essaouira University and of the association for the development of the town, outlined the basic geographic, historical and cultural realities of Morocco's atlantic heritage and peculiarities.

These very peculiarities were behind Morocco's radiance and leadership throughout centuries, he said.

"Based on an updated reading of our history, we should have an ambition and a project, inspiring their legitimacy from Morocco's exceptional geographic and strategic location and from the quality of the human resources of our country," the Royal advisor added.