
The second edition of the "Faces of Morocco of Excellence" awards, held in Casablanca on April 15, 2026, recognized ten Moroccan talents for their international achievements. Supported by the Council of the Moroccan Community Abroad, the event highlighted individuals who contribute to Morocco's global presence across various strategic sectors. Honorees included Ambassador Samira Sitail, astrophysicist Meriem Elyajouri from NASA, composer Youssef Guezoum, triathlete Badr Siwane, coach Tarik Sektioui, and actress Mouna Fettou. A notable recognition went to Khadija Bendam for her election as president of the International Nuclear Societies Council INSC, marking a global first and demonstrating Moroccan leadership in nuclear governance. Her work with CNESTEN in safety and security audits further solidifies her role in international standards. The "Faces of Morocco" initiative, founded by Hind Chaouat, aims to connect diaspora talents with their home country and showcase inspiring journeys, projecting an image of Morocco as an open, connected, and excellence-driven nation on the international stage.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Le Matin.
Must ReadThousands of agents from federal and local agencies have been mobilized to secure the 2026 World Cup final in New York, an event considered one of the most significant sporting gatherings ever held in the United States. The security detail includes the New York Police Department NYPD, New Jersey Police, the Secret Service, the FBI, and homeland security services. Enhanced security perimeters have been established around the stadium and main access routes, featuring systematic spectator checks, traffic restrictions, and increased surveillance of public transport. Additional measures are in place due to the presence of President Trump, who is scheduled to present the trophy to the winner. These measures include reinforced aerial surveillance, deployment of specialized counter-terrorism units, and command centers for real-time operation coordination. Authorities have stated there is no credible specific threat to the final but emphasize the need for high vigilance given the current international context. Over 80,000 spectators are expected at the New York New Jersey Stadium, with approximately 1.5 billion viewers worldwide, making it one of the most monitored events of the year. FIFA has planned an 11-minute halftime show, curated by Chris Martin of Coldplay, featuring Shakira, Justin Bieber, Madonna, and BTS, benefiting Global Citizen's educational fund. The World Cup Organizing Committee has also scheduled over 100 fan gatherings in New York and New Jersey, with the Great Lawn

Istanbul Governor Davut Gül highlighted the city's appeal to Moroccan tourists and investors, noting that the number of Moroccan visitors in the first quarter of this year equaled the total for the entire previous year. Gül attributed Istanbul's attractiveness to its unique geographical location between Asia and Europe, its rich history, and efforts under the President's leadership to enhance security, stability, and logistical infrastructure. He also mentioned simplified administrative procedures for investors. Istanbul hosts approximately 5,500 Moroccan nationals, including a significant number of students, who are seen as future ambassadors for friendship between Turkey and Morocco. The Governor emphasized the historical ties and shared values that facilitate their integration into Turkish society. To further enhance the experience for Moroccan tourists, Istanbul is improving transportation, promoting historical sites in multiple languages, and developing culinary and health services, all within a secure environment. Gül also discussed Istanbul's long-standing tradition of harmonious coexistence among diverse cultures and religions, attributing it to state tradition guaranteeing freedom of worship, respect for neighborhood relations, and the city's identity as a crossroads between East and West. He expressed a desire to strengthen cooperation between Istanbul and Moroccan cities, citing the twinning of Istanbul and Rabat as an example, and believes Moroccan students in Ist

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation FRMF director committee met on Friday, July 17, to discuss the national leagues' performance and future projects for Moroccan football development. Abdeslam Belgchour, president of the National Professional Football League LNFP, presented key indicators for Botola Pro, including a total budget of 965 million dirhams. His presentation covered digital transformation from 2022 to 2026, modernization of competition management, and improved services for clubs. It also addressed the transfer market, training centers, qualified players, foreign player presence, and movements between professional clubs, amateur teams, and youth categories. Sportingly, the FRMF director committee approved an LNFP proposal to postpone Botola club matches when more than three of their players are called up to the national team. This measure aims to ensure fair play and prevent clubs with many national team players from being disadvantaged during championship rounds. Fouzi Lekjaâ, president of the FRMF, outlined the next phase of reform, emphasizing the autonomy of national leagues while maintaining close coordination with the Federation and adherence to regulations. Leagues must establish new headquarters by the end of 2026 to improve working conditions and governance. The FRMF also plans to enhance match organization and implement a new fan support model to strengthen stadium security, improve public services, and professionalize match management. Youth championsh