Rabat: The Academy of the Kingdom of Morocco held a solemn welcome and investiture ceremony for His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, as an honorary member of the Academy. The event was attended by Academy members, diplomats, and high-ranking figures.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, the ceremony was chaired by Andr© Azoulay, Advisor to His Majesty the King and member of the Academy of the Kingdom. Permanent Secretary of the Academy Abdeljalil Lahjomri highlighted the importance of Cardinal Parolin’s induction, describing him as a figure central to global diplomacy and peace efforts. Lahjomri emphasized that Parolin’s career reflects a commitment to dialogue and moral law transcending borders and eras.

The event coincided with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Morocco and the Holy See. Lahjomri recalled Pope Francis’s historic visit to Morocco in March 2019, which underlined the Kingdom’s role in fostering interfaith dialogue and cooperation. During the visit, the “Al-Quds Call” was signed, advocating for the preservation of Jerusalem as a symbol of peaceful coexistence among the three monotheistic faiths.

Julien-Vincent Brunie, Dean of the European diplomatic corps and ambassador of the Sovereign Order of Malta to Morocco, praised the Academy’s decision to include Cardinal Parolin, affirming the Holy See’s presence as a bridge between spiritual and cultural realms. Brunie noted the significant anniversaries of diplomatic relations celebrated this year by both the Order of Malta and the Holy See with Morocco.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin delivered an inaugural lecture titled “Believers and Citizens: Building Human Fraternity Together After 50 Years of Diplomatic Relations Between the Holy See and Morocco.” He expressed gratitude to King Mohammed VI, acknowledging the Academy as a venue for cultural diplomacy and dialogue. Cardinal Parolin praised Morocco’s dedication to interreligious dialogue and its role in fostering peace.

In his address, Cardinal Parolin highlighted the shared mission of Royal Diplomacy and the Holy See in building universal human fraternity. He received the Academy of the Kingdom Award in recognition of his efforts and contributions to diplomacy and peacebuilding.