International Symposium at Universitat Rovira i Virgili
On April 9 and 10, the Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV) hosted an international symposium titled 'Tarragona and Morocco (19th-21st Centuries): Historical Genealogy and Contemporary Challenges of a Shared Mediterranean Space.' This event marked the inaugural official activity of the Chair of Moroccan Studies, an initiative supported by the General Consulate of the Kingdom of Morocco. Held in the Sala de Grados of the Catalunya Campus, the gathering brought together professors, researchers, and experts from various universities, aiming to establish a multidisciplinary forum dedicated to analyzing the historical, cultural, social, and economic relations between Tarragona and Morocco from the 19th century to the present day.
Strengthening Ties and Cultural Exchange
During the opening ceremony, the symbolic significance of the Chair of Moroccan Studies was emphasized as a space for encounter, dialogue, and shared construction, underlining its commitment to fostering deeper connections in the future. The discussions highlighted that the ties between Tarragona and Morocco are characterized as 'intense, multifaceted, and strategic,' showcasing a growing dynamic of collaboration manifested through high-level visits and joint projects. Notably, advancements in the twinning between Tarragona and Tangier were discussed, alongside the pivotal role of the Port of Tarragona as a logistical hub in the Mediterranean, facilitating trade exchanges with Morocco.
The symposium also underscored the importance of civil society, through cultural associations, social entities, and collaborative projects in building these connections. In this context, the presence of the Moroccan community in the province of Tarragona, recognized as the most numerous and dynamic foreign community, was acknowledged as a 'fundamental pillar' of this relationship. The program included cultural activities open to the public, such as a traditional music performance featuring the oud by artist Adil El Amrani, and a Moroccan folk dance show presented by the Nostalgia Association from Lleida. Moreover, the Institut Català de Paleoecologia Humana i Evolució Social participated in the initiative with activities aimed at children.
As reported by europapress.es.
