French-Moroccan comedian Yassine Belattar defended his participation in Emmanuel Macron’s recent state visit to Morocco, which drew criticism from far-right leaders like Jordan Bardella, AFP reported.
Bardella condemned Belattar’s involvement, labeling it “disrespectful” to both France and Morocco due to accusations of Belattar’s alleged ties to Islamism.
Macron dismissed the controversy as “anecdotal” and emphasized the historical significance of the trip, focusing on broader diplomatic objectives rather than the media spotlight on Belattar.
During a reception with the French community, Belattar expressed frustration over the attention directed at him, asserting his legitimacy as both a French and Moroccan citizen with a two-decade career in France.
Belattar, previously appointed by Macron to the Presidential Council of Cities for his insights on urban issues, also faced legal troubles, having been sentenced to a four-month suspended prison term in September 2023 for making threats against several entertainment figures. However, he vehemently denied any affiliations with Islamism, arguing that his presence was cleared by security services.
add your comment
Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.