Concert in Casablanca Marks 70 Years of Morocco-Germany Diplomatic Relations


Casablanca:A classical music concert took place on Wednesday evening in Casablanca to commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Morocco and Germany, showcasing the collaboration of artists and musicians from both nations.



According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, the concert was part of the Morocco88 2026 Tour, which runs from October 3 to 9 and involves artists and young participants from Morocco88 music clubs. The event was organized by AnouArts Association, 88 International, the Moroccan Institute of International Relations (IMRI), and the Zefzaf Cultural Complex, with support from German and European partners.



The concert featured performances by American pianist and composer Kimball Gallagher, the founder of 88 International, and the German string quartet Cardellino Streichquartett. Moroccan clarinetist Said Cherki joined the quartet for a Mozart composition, emphasizing cultural exchange. The program included works from the European classical repertoire, such as Robert Schumann’s “Carnaval,” performed by Gallagher.



Young participants from the Morocco88 program also performed, with music clubs from high schools in Fez, Nador, and Marrakech presenting compositions specially arranged for the tour. Morocco88 is an expanding program of after-school music clubs in Moroccan secondary schools, developed with the Ministry of Education, and now includes about 100 clubs across seven regions.



Najib Zerouali Ouariti, honorary president of AnouArts Association, stated that the music chosen for the anniversary highlights the unifying power of culture beyond diplomatic ties. Kimball Gallagher described Morocco88 as a transformative program centered on music, inclusion, and transformation, aiming to engage students actively in their communities.



IMRI President Jawad Kerdoudi emphasized the opportunity to further strengthen the already strong relations between Morocco and Germany through this initiative, noting the depth of economic exchanges and investments. The Morocco88 2026 Tour, which began in Nador and continued in Fez, will proceed to Rabat and Marrakech.



The event aims to celebrate seven decades of Morocco-Germany diplomatic relations through cultural cooperation, artistic expression, and youth engagement.