Rabat: Speaking at the opening of an international conference in Rabat, Justice Minister Ouahbi announced that Morocco has ratified all international conventions related to the protection of cultural property. The country has also signed bilateral agreements with several nations to combat the illegal trade of cultural goods and facilitate their repatriation.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, Morocco is actively aligning its legal framework with international standards. The Justice Minister emphasized the nation’s commitment to strengthening the capacity of law enforcement agencies to detect trafficking networks, prosecute offenders, and reduce impunity. Ouahbi highlighted the growing issue of cultural property trafficking, which has become one of the world’s fastest-growing criminal activities. He referenced international legal instruments such as UNESCO conventions, the Interpol database on stolen artworks, and ethical codes for dealers.

ICESCO Director-General Salem Ben Mohammed Al-Malik underscore
d the need for stronger global cooperation in this area. He pointed out the potential role of artificial intelligence in tracking black market activity and monitoring auctions. Al-Malik also mentioned that the week-long conference aims to provide practical training and foster collaboration among stakeholders.

The event, taking place from June 30 to July 5, is co-organized by ICESCO, Qatar’s General Customs Authority, and the Qatar National Library. It includes workshops focused on cultural property protection tools and technologies.