Former Foreign Minister Mohamed Benaïssa laid to rest in Asilah

The funeral of the late Mohamed Benaïssa, former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Culture, was held on Sunday in Asilah, in the presence of his family, relatives and friends.

Following the Asr prayer and the funeral prayer at the Grand Mosque of Asilah, Benaïssa’s body was transferred to the mausoleum of Zaouïa Aïssaouia in the heart of the medina, where he was laid to rest.

Among the notable figures attending the ceremony were the Secretary-General of the Government, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates, the Minister of Justice, the Minister of Equipment and Water, as well as the Minister of Economic Inclusion, Small Business, Employment, and Skills. Many other prominent figures from the political, cultural, and artistic spheres, along with representatives of local authorities and political parties, were also present.

HM King Mohammed VI had sent a message of condolences and sympathy to the family members of the late Mohamed Benaïssa, expressing, through them, His deep condolences and sincere compassion to all his relatives and friends in Morocco and abroad, following this painful loss.

“If the late, may God have him in His holy mercy, has reached his final resting place, his legacy shall remain etched in memory as a skilled statesman and seasoned diplomat who showed great competence in the high offices he held, with devotion and loyalty—whether as Minister of Culture, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Ambassador of Our Majesty in Washington, or as an elected parliamentarian or local representative,” the Sovereign emphasized.

HM the King fondly recalled the late Benaïssa’s distinguished human qualities, open-mindedness, intelligence, and passion for culture. His dedication to the cultural and artistic influence of his hometown, Assilah, was evident through his efforts for its development and promotion, both nationally and internationally. His vision materialized in the founding and leadership of the Assilah Forum Foundation, making him a genuine model of responsible citizenship.

Benaissa began his career in media, working as a broadcaster for Radio Africa Maghreb in Tangier after completing his secondary education in Cairo.

Benaissa held several key positions in Morocco’s government. He served as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation from 1999 to 2007, and as Morocco’s Ambassador to the United States from 1993 to 1999. He also held the post of Minister of Culture between 1985 and 1992.

In addition to his governmental roles, Benaissa was a member of Morocco’s House of Councillors and President of the Asilah Council.

Renowned for his dedication to culture, Benaissa is perhaps best known for his association with the Asilah Cultural Season, an annual event that has become a prominent forum for academics, experts, and artists from Morocco and abroad to engage in dialogue on a range of contemporary issues.