Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), received Mr. Li Changlin, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Kingdom of Morocco. The two parties discussed ways to promote partnership between ICESCO and China, the prospects of organizing several joint initiatives, and arrangements for the participation of ICESCO’s delegation, led by Dr. AlMalik, in the Ministerial Meeting on Civilizational Dialogue, to be held on July 10-11, 2025, in Beijing.
During this meeting, held on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at ICESCO’s headquarters in Rabat, Dr. AlMalik commended the flourishing partnership between the Organization and China, emphasizing that ICESCO’s openness to non-Member States contributes to strengthening cooperation between these countries and the Islamic world. He explained that the upcoming meeting in Beijing will include a visit to Shaanxi Province, renowned for its historical significance, rich cultural heritage, and pioneering institutions in the development of advanced technological industries.
The DG also thanked his guest for extending the invitation to him and the ICESCO delegation to take part in this grand event. He emphasized that the theme of the ministerial meeting, “Protecting the Diversity of Human Civilizations for Global Peace and Development,” aligns with the Organization’s vision of promoting civilizational dialogue, cultural diversity, and mutual understanding among peoples. He further noted that it also corresponds with its educational and cultural initiatives aimed at consolidating peace in the Member States.
For his part, the Chinese Ambassador reaffirmed that ICESCO’s participation in this event will reflect its efforts to promote dialogue of civilizations and will provide an opportunity to exchange best practices in this field. He added that it will introduce the relevant Chinese authorities to the Organization’s activities and role across its various fields of competence. The discussion covered the joint organization of scientific conferences and the preparation of Chinese cultural days at ICESCO’s headquarters to strengthen the rapprochement between China and the Islamic world, in addition to helping young people from the Islamic world learn the Chinese language.
Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), held a meeting at the Organization’s headquarters in Rabat with Dr. Marat Gatin and Mr. Timur Suleymanov, Aides to the Rais of Tatarstan, Russian Federation, to discuss preparations for the celebration of “Kazan, Cultural Capital in the Islamic World for 2026,” and explore avenues for strengthening cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
Dr. AlMalik reaffirmed ICESCO’s commitment to the success of this major cultural event, outlining the programmes and activities that the Organization’s Culture Sector plans to implement to highlight Kazan’s civilizational depth and enhance its cultural and social capital.
Moreover, Dr. AlMalik expressed confidence that the celebration of Kazan as the Cultural Capital in the Islamic World would be one of the most successful, thanks to Tatarstan’s wise leadership, strong enthusiasm, extensive experience, and the well-coordinated efforts of all stakeholders involved.
For his part, Mr. Timur Suleymanov spoke about the diverse and rich cultural programme planned for the celebration, commending ICESCO’s continued support to ensure its success.
Dr. Marat Gatin praised the strong relationship between ICESCO and the Republic of Tatarstan, affirming his country’s commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation, particularly in education, scientific research, and academic training, as well as promoting intercultural dialogue and values of tolerance.
The meeting also addressed the creation of a joint coordination committee for the celebration, the organization of conferences and events at ICESCO headquarters in Rabat, and the reception of young trainees from Tatarstan who will serve as ICESCO ambassadors within their communities.
The International Symposium on “Translation and Security: The Role of Translation in Enhancing National and International Security” kicked off on Wednesday at the headquarters of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) in Rabat. The event is jointly organized by ICESCO and Naif Arab University for Security Sciences (NAUSS) in Saudi Arabia, with the participation of government officials and experts in translation and security.
The symposium aims to explore the role of translation in enhancing national and international security, discuss the linguistic and cultural challenges affecting translation in security contexts, and highlight how translation supports security operations and addresses cross-border threats. It also reviews the latest tools, methods, and practices in security-related translation, and its role in improving communication between countries and international organizations.
During the opening session, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General, emphasized that translation is now regarded as a soft power that shapes global security discourse, fortifies societies, and builds bridges of knowledge between civilizations. Dr. AlMalik announced a series of initiatives by ICESCO’s Centre for Translation and Publishing to translate research and knowledge into multiple languages in order to preserve the presence of Islamic world cultures in international fora.
Following, Mr. Khalid bin Abdulaziz Alharfash, Secretary of NAUSS Supreme Council, and Vice-President for External Relations, stated that the University launched the “Translated Book Initiative” as part of its research strategy to support evidence-based security policies and crime prevention. He noted that the symposium is intended to address linguistic and cultural challenges in security-related translation, while also showcasing how translation can support security operations and counter cross-border threats.
For his part, Mr. Abdellatif Hammouchi, Director General of National Security (DGSN), Director-General of Territorial Surveillance (DGST) of Morocco, emphasized, through remarks delivered on his behalf by Mr. Boubker Sabik, Superintendent General of Police, the central role of translators in aligning linguistic context with legal standards. He described translators as key partners in reinforcing security and stability, ensuring fair trials, and legitimizing legal procedures.
Dr. Ahmed Albanyan, Head of ICESCO’s Centre for Translation and Publishing, noted that translation is no longer a mere linguistic process but rather a strategic bridge linking security, cultural, and technological domains. It serves as a central tool for shaping security, protecting societies, and achieving stability in an increasingly complex, multilingual world.
The opening session also featured the signing of a memorandum of understanding between ICESCO’s Centre for Translation and Publishing and King Fahd School of Translation of Abdelmalek Essaâdi University in Morocco to enhance academic cooperation and mutual training. Over the course of two days, the symposium will include a specialized workshop on the use of modern translation technologies and the training of translators for sensitive environments, along with five thematic sessions on translation in crises, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and multilateral institutional partnerships.
Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), received Mr. Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan, Advisor to the Ministry of Youth and Sports of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, in the presence of Her Excellency Mrs. Sadia Faizunnesa, Ambassador of Bangladesh to the Kingdom of Morocco. The two parties discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between ICESCO and Bangladesh, particularly in the fields of youth empowerment and cultural development.
At the outset of the meeting, which took place on Tuesday 1 July 2025, at ICESCO Headquarters in Rabat, Dr. AlMalik expressed his satisfaction with the close cooperation between ICESCO and Bangladesh, highlighting the initiatives and projects implemented in several areas, foremost among them: organizing workshops to develop competencies in the field of genomics; implementing a program for evaluating technological innovations aimed at strengthening the health sector in Bangladesh; organizing training programs on Global Citizenship Education (GCED) and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD); in addition to organizing the “Green and Clean School” competition, which aims to transform schools into centers for sustainability.
The Director-General of ICESCO also emphasized the Organization’s interest in supporting its Member States’ efforts in developing education, science, and culture, building the capacities of youth and women, and training them in leadership for peace and security. Dr. AlMalik also referred to the Organization’s work in preserving and safeguarding heritage, by registering it on the ICESCO Islamic World Heritage List, along with the attention ICESCO gives to investing in artificial intelligence and modern technologies to advance efforts toward achieving sustainable development.
Furthermore, the meeting saw discussions on future areas of cooperation, especially with regard to organizing joint activities, mutual participation in each other’s events, and training youth from Bangladesh at ICESCO Headquarters in Rabat.
For his part, Mr. Shojib Bhuiyan affirmed his country’s keenness to strengthen its standing partnership with ICESCO and develop cooperation in the field of youth capacity building and skill development, particularly in the cultural field, promoting civilizational dialogue, and combating extremist ideologies, noting that Bangladesh possesses many talents specializing in ICESCO’s areas of work.
His Excellency Syed Adil Gilani, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the Kingdom of Morocco, paid a courtesy visit to Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), at the Organization’s Headquarters in Rabat.
During the meeting, both sides discussed the strong and growing cooperation between ICESCO and Pakistan, particularly in the fields of science, technology, and innovation. They explored new opportunities to strengthen institutional partnerships and ensure that joint initiatives align with Pakistan’s national development priorities.
As part of the discussion with Ambassador Gilani’, Dr. AlMalik clarified that the Lifetime Achievement Award presented to His Excellency Prof. Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhary was granted by the Vice Chancellors Forum which was held at ICESCO headquarters on 23 June , under the auspices of the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan. The award recognized Prof. Iqbal’s distinguished contributions to the advancement of higher education, science, technology, and innovation.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both parties reaffirmed their mutual commitment to advancing educational, scientific, and cultural progress throughout the Islamic world and to further enhancing their collaborative efforts.
Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), delivered a series of inspiring messages to the youth of the Islamic world during the opening ceremony of “Marrakech, Capital of Islamic World Youth 2025.”
Dr. AlMalik emphasized that success is not defined by titles or positions, but by the impact one has on the lives of others. He urged young people to “walk steadily and with great humility, for the tree, when it bears fruit, bends down. If you fall, do not despair, for falling is not the end but a lesson to learn and a driving force for success.”
He also called on youth to remain rooted in their values and to cherish their homelands, reminding them that every achievement brings a smile to a mother’s face and reassurance to the heart of a nation that awaits the contributions of its children. He encouraged them to leave a lasting mark in life, likening the compassionate doctor and the dedicated engineer to those who create enduring human legacies.
Moreover, Dr. AlMalik stressed the importance of mastering future skills. “Those who prepare today will be among the builders of tomorrow, while those who lag behind may find no place for themselves in a fast-paced world that waits for no one. Learn the languages of tomorrow—coding, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity—and remember that learning is a lifelong journey.”
This message formed part of his address at the official launch of “Marrakech, Capital of Islamic World Youth 2025,” held on Monday, June 30, 2025, as part of the Islamic Cooperation Youth Forum. The event is held under the high patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may Allah assist him, and brings together around 200 young men and women from 48 countries.
Dr. AlMalik reaffirmed ICESCO’s strong belief in the vital role of youth in building prosperous futures for their nations and reviving the glory of Islamic civilization. He emphasized the need to trust young people and provide them with real spaces for creativity and innovation.
He also praised the tremendous efforts of the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication of the Kingdom of Morocco for bringing culture to life in every street and square of the country. He commended the unwavering support of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, who views youth as the nation’s greatest wealth and considers culture a bridge to development and peace.
In closing, Dr. AlMalik lauded Marrakech’s unique status and well-earned titles, calling it a capital of dreams, youth, and innovation. He noted that ICESCO had previously designated Marrakech as the Culture Capital in the Islamic World for 2024, a celebration marked by rich cultural and artistic programming that showcased the city’s vibrant heritage and civilizational diversity.
The International Conference on the Role of Customs Authorities in Combating Illicit Trafficking in Cultural Property, kicked off today, Monday, June 30, 2025, at the headquarters of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) in Rabat. Organized in collaboration with the Qatar National Library, the General Authority of Customs of Qatar, and Morocco’s Customs and Indirect Taxes Administration, the ICESCO Conference saw high-level participation including ministers, officials, and experts specializing in cultural heritage protection.
The conference aims to highlight the pivotal role of customs authorities in protecting cultural property, foster cooperation and coordination among customs agencies and relevant stakeholders, and exchange expertise and information. Over the course of six days, the Conference will feature a series of scientific sessions and panels focused on core skills for safeguarding cultural heritage, the use of customs tools and technologies in handling cultural property, as well as specialized training workshops on digital documentation techniques, temporary storage of seized cultural items, and the preparation of confiscation reports. During the opening session, Dr. AlMalik stressed the urgent need to intensify efforts to preserve cultural heritage, stating alarming statistics that reveal that over 80% of artifacts exhibited worldwide are either of unknown origin or have been looted. Dr. AlMalik stated, “Preserving cultural property means safeguarding the essence of a nation, protecting its memory, and preserving its identity amid the storms of change.”
Moreover, Dr. AlMalik highlighted the importance of cooperation among various international stakeholders and coordination between countries in the recovery of looted cultural property. He noted that ICESCO is developing a comprehensive strategy to combat illicit trafficking of cultural property across the Islamic world, which focuses on building expertise, linking databases, and leveraging artificial intelligence to monitor and track artifacts, thereby restricting their circulation in suspicious markets.
The opening session began with the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran, followed by an address by Mr. Abdellatif Ouahbi, Morocco’s Minister of Justice, who highlighted his country’s ongoing legislative efforts to combat illicit trafficking of cultural property, culminating in the enactment of a new law for the protection of cultural heritage. He also emphasized the critical importance of building the capacities of professionals working at key institutions to effectively address cross-border criminal activities.
For his part, Mr. Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, Morocco’s Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, underscored the Kingdom’s strong commitment to cultural heritage, describing it as a living testament to human history. He explained that illicit trafficking networks exploit legal loopholes, political instability in certain countries, and advanced technologies to conduct their criminal operations. He also highlighted the urgent need to strengthen oversight of international art auctions to curb these activities.
The Director-General of Morocco’s Customs and Indirect Taxes Administration, Abdellatif Amrani, stressed, in an address read on his behalf by the Director of Prevention and Disputes, Mr. Chafik Essalouh, that the Customs Administration plays a crucial role in protecting cultural property by enforcing strict controls on the cross-border movement of such items and actively participating in international initiatives aimed at recovering looted artifacts.
Speaking next, Mr. Talal Abdullah Al Shaibi, Assistant Chairman for Customs Affairs at the Qatar Customs Authority, underscored the pivotal role of customs authorities in combating the smuggling and illicit trafficking of cultural property, stressing the vital importance of international cooperation among relevant institutions.
The Executive Director of Qatar National Library, Ms. Tan Huism, addressed the growing threats to cultural heritage, highlighting the important roles played by both the media and community members in preserving cultural heritage for future generations.
For his part Jamal Lakrimat, Superintendent General of General Directorate for National Security (DGSN) and General Directorate for Territorial Surveillance (DGST) of Morocco, reaffirmed the Directorate’s commitment to supporting international initiatives aimed at cutting off the sources of illicit trafficking in cultural property. He emphasized that this commitment is part of a security vision that integrates cultural considerations within policing efforts.
On Thursday, 26 June 2025, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), met with Ms. Marielle Sander, Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in the Kingdom of Morocco, to discuss the development of joint cooperation mechanisms in the field of social development.
The meeting, held at ICESCO headquarters in Rabat, focused on proposals for joint programs and projects aimed at empowering youth and women and equipping countries to benefit from the qualified demographic dividend as a strength of societies.
Discussions also included organizing conferences and seminars that articulate realistic visions for achieving sustainable development.
The meeting also addressed mechanisms for initiating the implementation of these initiatives in the Kingdom of Morocco as a first phase, then expanding them to other countries in the Islamic world, in accordance with the specific needs of each country.
In this context, Dr. AlMalik emphasized the great importance ICESCO places on empowering youth, considering them a fundamental pillar of development and progress and a tremendous human asset. He pointed out that ICESCO has made significant progress in this regard, stemming from its belief that youth are the source of creativity and innovation.
For her part, Ms. Sander presented the objectives and programs of the UNFPA in the Kingdom of Morocco, which aim to support families and advance the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals by improving population well-being and enabling youth and women through economic and social empowerment.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both parties agreed to continue bilateral discussions to explore mechanisms for implementing joint programs and projects and to study the best ways to finance them.
Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), received Mr. Omar Sherif Abdoelrahman, Ambassador of the Republic of Suriname to the Kingdom of Morocco, on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the Organization’s headquarters in Rabat. During the meeting, the two sides discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in the fields of civilizational dialogue and the promotion of the values of peace, diversity, and coexistence among young people in the Islamic world.
Both sides also stressed the importance of continued and direct communication between them, as well as the implementation of joint programs and initiatives in the educational, scientific, and cultural fields. In this vein, Dr. AlMalik reiterated ICESCO’s openness to learning more about Suriname’s priorities and needs in its fields of competence in order to design projects that meet those priorities.
The ICESCO Director-General also pointed out that building a strategic partnership with Suriname would provide a bridge to effective communication with the countries of the Islamic world and enable the implementation of joint programs with Member States in areas of common interest.
For his part, Mr. Abdoelrahman expressed his country’s willingness to cooperate with ICESCO and engage with the innovative initiatives and activities it offers to its Member States. He stressed the importance of supporting the diversity that characterizes the Islamic world and strengthening its unity, praising the Organization’s efforts in this field.
During the meeting, a number of suggested programs and projects were discussed, including the launch of two civilizational dialogue programs between Suriname and the Islamic world: “Exploring Paths to Understanding and Dialogue” and “Dialogue Between the Youth of Suriname and the Youth of the Islamic World.”
The Center of Arabic for Non-Arabic Speakers at the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) has released the fourth series of specialized studies in the field of teaching Arabic to non-Arabic speakers. This release is part of the “Specialized Studies” project overseen by the Center.
The new series comprises ten peer-reviewed books authored by a select group of experts and specialists from nine countries: Qatar, Egypt, Thailand, Malaysia, Syria, Türkiye, Morocco, Jordan, and Germany. The publications address contemporary linguistic and educational topics such as assessment strategies, language games, heritage language, and the integration of scientific content into curricula, among others.
These publications aim to support scientific research in the field of Arabic language instruction for non-arabic speakers and align with global trends in curriculum development and educational tools.
The fourth series includes the following titles:
Integrating Nonverbal Communication in Teaching Arabic to Foreigners: “The Wise Understands the Gesture” – An Illustrated Guide for Practitioners.
Feedback Strategies in Arabic Language Teaching Programs for Non-Arabic Speakers: An Approach Toward Using Authentic Assessment.
Language Games: A Methodological and Practical Perspective.
Heritage Language: Concepts, Competencies, and Practices – The Case of Arabic in Germany.
Developing Educational Series in Light of the Reference Framework for Teaching Arabic to Non-Arabic Speakers: Authorship, Teaching, and Training – “Imta‘”.
Towards a Functional Curriculum for Teaching Arabic to Non-Arabic Speakers Working in the Media Sector.
Reading Comprehension in Teaching Arabic to Non-Arabic Speakers: Teaching Strategies and Testing Methods.
Vocabulary Learning Strategies among Arabic Language Learners: Theoretical Foundations and Practical Models.
Teaching Stories to Non-Arabic-Speaking Children.
Scientific Content in Arabic Language Curricula for Non-Arabic Speakers: Toward an Integrated Didactic Approach.
ICESCO offers these publications for free download on its website at the following link: https://icesco.org/vjxt
