The Diplomatic Foundation of the Kingdom of Morocco has awarded Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), the International Prize for Public Diplomacy in its fourth edition, in recognition of his tireless efforts to promote bilateral cooperation between ICESCO and Morocco across the Organization’s areas of expertise.

Dr. AlMalik received the prestigious award from Mr. Abdelati Habek, President of the Foundation, and Mr. Salaheddine Mezouar, President of the Prize’s Council of Elders, during a grand ceremony organized by the Foundation on Friday, April 25, 2025, in the Moroccan capital, Rabat. The event brought together senior state officials, ministers, and ambassadors accredited to Rabat, alongside a distinguished group of Moroccan institutions, economists, parliamentarians, athletes, and media professionals, who were also honored on this occasion.

In his remarks, the ICESCO Director-General expressed deep gratitude and appreciation to the Diplomatic Foundation, highlighting that ICESCO’s strategic partnership with Morocco was made possible thanks to the unparalleled support the Organization and its activities receive from Moroccan authorities at all levels — most notably the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, for many of its programs and initiatives within the Kingdom.

The Diplomatic Foundation affirmed that honoring Dr. AlMalik constitutes a profound recognition of his valuable contributions and exceptional role in empowering youth and women, and promoting innovation and creativity across ICESCO’s 53 Member States. It also underscored his pivotal role in strengthening bilateral relations between Morocco and ICESCO, which, since he assumed leadership of the Organization, have seen the launch of an unprecedented number of joint activities and innovative initiatives.

The international category of the Prize is awarded to an international personality who has contributed to building bridges of cooperation with Morocco. Among the distinguished previous recipients are His Excellency Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas; Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations; and Ms. Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary-General of La Francophonie.

This year’s national laureates include:

• Dr. Mohamed Cheikh Biadillah (Parliamentary Diplomacy category),
• Banque Populaire Group (Economy and Finance category),
• Marsa Maroc Foundation (Industry and Services category),
• Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (Research and Innovation category),
• Medi1 TV (Media and Communication category),
• Ms. Samira Haddouchi (Women and Leadership category),
• Saadani Mae El Ainine (Human Rights category),
• The Moroccan National Under-17 Football Team (Youth category),
• And runner Soufiane El Bakkali (Sports category).