Washington: The visit of Her Royal Highness Princess Lalla Asmaa to Gallaudet University, the sole institution globally dedicated to the education of deaf and hard of hearing individuals, has further cemented the “excellent relations” between Morocco and the United States, stated Azzedine El Midaoui, the minister of Higher Education, Scientific Research, and Innovation.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, El Midaoui emphasized that this visit will enhance the already strong ties between Morocco and the United States. He noted that the visit will also bolster the unique relationship between the Lalla Asmaa Foundation and Gallaudet University, which is regarded as a pioneering institution on the international stage.

El Midaoui, who also serves on the Board of Directors for the Lalla Asmaa Foundation, highlighted the significance of a letter of intent signed between the Foundation and Gallaudet University. This agreement aims to replicate and enhance the Gallaudet experience, paving the way for Morocco to establish a university that offers education to deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in an inclusive environment.

Minister of Solidarity, Social Integration and Family, Nama Ben Yahia, affirmed that this visit aligns with the ongoing efforts by Her Royal Highness and the Lalla Asmaa Foundation to support deaf and hard of hearing children and youth. Ben Yahia, also a board member of the Foundation, stressed the importance of the letter of intent, which will allow young Moroccans who are deaf or hard of hearing to benefit from Gallaudet’s pioneering educational model.

Youssef Amrani, Morocco’s ambassador to the United States, described the visit as a testament to the profound and mature partnership between Morocco and the United States. He underscored that beyond political and diplomatic relations, the human and social aspects remain crucial, reflecting the vision of HM King Mohammed VI. He noted that Her Royal Highness has invigorated the relationship between Rabat and Washington, reinforcing mutual commitment.

Roberta Cordano, President of Gallaudet University, expressed pride in the opportunity to share the university’s expertise. She noted Morocco’s commitment and described the country as a gateway for collaborations across Africa. Moroccan doctoral student Zahra Ketoun shared her positive experiences at Gallaudet, emphasizing the importance of the letter of intent in supporting the deaf community in Morocco.

Former Lalla Asmaa Foundation student Zakaria El Kantaoui praised the Foundation’s efforts. He expressed his determination to return to Morocco after completing his studies at Gallaudet to contribute to the local deaf and hard of hearing community.