Prince Moulay Rachid Current Events: December 2003 -June 2013

[Asma2]

Son Altesse Royale le Prince Moulay Rachid

Son Altesse Royale le Prince Moulay Rachid, fils cadet de Sa Majesté Feu Hassan II, est né le 20 juin 1970 à Rabat. Après des études primaires et secondaires au Collège Royal, couronnées en juin 1989, par l’obtention du Baccalauréat avec mention, Son Altesse Royale entre à l’Université Mohammed V pour poursuivre des Etudes Supérieures en Droit. En mai 1993, il obtient avec mention « très bien » sa Licence en Droit (option Droit Public), simultanément avec son Diplôme en Droit comparé à la faculté des Sciences Juridiques, Economiques et Sociales de Rabat. « La question Bosniaque » était le sujet de mémoire que Son Altesse Royale le Prince a présenté et soutenu publiquement le 29 juin 1995.

Son Altesse Royale le Prince Moulay Rachid est déclaré définitivement admis aux épreuves écrites du premier Certificat d’Etudes Supérieures en Sciences Politiques Générales, avec mention « très bien ». Afin de compléter sa formation et de vivre de près la pratique des principes et règles de Droit appris à la Faculté, Son Altesse Royale effectue, en novembre 1993 un stage au siège de l’Organisation des Nations-Unies (O.N.U), à New York, dans le cadre de la préparation d’une thèse de Doctorat en Droit sur l’O.N.U.

En juillet 1994, le Prince Moulay Rachid est promu au grade de Colonel-Major de la Marine Royale. Le 21 juin 1996, Son Altesse Royale le Prince Moulay Rachid est définitivement admis aux épreuves écrites et orales du deuxième Certificat d’Etudes Supérieures, option Relations Internationales, avec mention « très bien ». Il est déclaré Major de sa promotion. Parallèlement à ses études, Son Altesse Royale le Prince Moulay Rachid s’intéresse, depuis son jeune âge, aux activités culturelles, sociales, sportives et économiques. Il a également pris part, aux côtés de Son Auguste Père Feu Sa Majesté Hassan II et de Leurs Altesses Royales les Princes et Princesses, à de nombreuses activités officielles. Le 4 avril 1997, Son Altesse Royale le Prince Moulay Rachid est porté à la présidence de la Fédération Nationale du Scoutisme Marocain.

S.A.R le Prince Moulay Rachid est président de la Fédération Royale Marocaine de Golf.

S.A.R le Prince Moulay Rachid est président de la Commission préparatoire du Sommet des Nations-Unies pour l'Enfance.

 

[Asma2]

Prince Moulay Rachid was crown prince until Mohammed VI son was born. I think, in a case of Mohammed VI dead his son would become king and somebody would be regent. I think.

 

[Asma2]

Nov. 20,2003; Prince Moulay Rachid is currently in Mecca to perform minor pilgrimage (Umrah).

Saudi crown prince, Abdellah Ben Abdelaziz, hosted Tuesday an Iftar (breakfasting meal) in honor of the Moroccan prince.

 

[Asma2]

S.A.R. le Prince Moulay Rachid a présidé, lundi dernier au Théâtre national Mohammed V à Rabat, la cérémonie d'ouverture des Journées culturelles saoudiennes au Maroc, organisées du 1er au 10 décembre dans les villes de Rabat, Salé, Meknès et El Jadida.

 

[Asma2]

Prince Moulay Rachid chaired, yesterday with the Royal Golf Dar Essalam in Rabat, the ceremony of handing-over of the prices to the winners of the 32 edition of the Trophy Hassan II of Golf which was held from the 9 to December 14. His Royal Highness gave the Trophy Hassan II to the winner of the edition, the Spaniard Luna Santiago having already gained the tournament in 1998 and 2002.

 

[Asma2]

Prince Moulay Rachid gives the price to Luna Santiago.

 

[Asma2]

Prince Moulay Rachid chaired the ceremony of the vacation camps, within the framework of operation "Holidays for all".

 

[Asma2]

S.A.R. le Prince Moulay Rachid a présidé, hier après-midi au Complexe sportif Prince Moulay Abdallah à Rabat, les finales de la Coupe du Trône de football ayant opposé le Raja de Casablanca et le Moghreb de Fès pour la saison 2001-2002, et le Wydad de Casablanca et les FAR pour la saison 2002-2003

 

[Amira]

Le Roi Abdallah II, Souverain du Royaume hachémite de Jordanie est arrivé, hier après-midi à Rabat, pour une visite privée de deux jours au Maroc.
Le Souverain jordanien a été accueilli à sa descente d'avion à l'aéroport Rabat-Salé par S.A.R. le Prince Moulay Rachid.
S.A.R. le Prince Moulay Rachid et le Roi Abdallah II ont passé en revue un détachement de la troisième base aérienne de Salé qui rendait les honneurs.
Le Souverain jordanien a été ensuite salué par MM. Taïb Fassi Fihri, ministre délégué aux Affaires étrangères et à la Coopération, Hassan Amrani, Wali de la région de Rabat-Salé-Zemmour-Zaer, le gouverneur de la préfecture de Salé, le commandant de la place d'armes, les présidents des communes urbaines de Rabat et Salé et par d'autres personnalités civiles et militaires.

Le Roi Abdallah II a été également salué par MM. Ali Krichane, chargé d'affaires de l'ambassade de Jordanie au Maroc et Mohamed Hamid, consul jordanien à Rabat.

Le Souverain jordanien est accompagné durant cette visite d'une délégation comprenant notamment le Prince Ali Ibn Hussein, commandant de la garde royale jordanienne, Charif Mohamed Alhaïmaq, directeur du protocole royal, M. Mouine Al Hadid, directeur adjoint du protocole royal, M. Mouafaq Chrida, directeur adjoint de l'administration financière et le Dr. Rami Faraj, médecin particulier du Roi Abdallah II.

Après une pause à la salle d'honneur de l'aéroport, S.A.R. le Prince Moulay Rachid a accompagné le Souverain jordanien au siège de sa résidence.

 

[Asma2]

How tall is Rachid

 

[Asma2]

1-3. Visite au Maroc du Roi Abdallah II de Jordanie

4-5. SAR le Prince Moulay Rachid salue SM le Roi Abdellah II de Jordanie à son départ du Maroc

 

[Asma2]

HRH Prince Moulay Rachid received M. Jorge Chapper Perez :flower:

 

[rosa]

It seems that the royal families of the morocco and jordan are very near
There is not an unmarried Jordanian princess for moulay rachid?

 

[bluetortuga]

I don't know if its just me but P. Moulay Rachid comes across like a big playboy with an awful lot of time on his hands. What does he do? Does he have an official role in the Moroccan government?

 

[Asma2]

He is president of Golf association and some children association. Until the birth of Mohammed son, Rachid was crown prince. He does continue to represent King Mohammed in various activities.

 

[Asma2]

SAR le Prince Moulay Rachid reçoit la délégation officielle devant se rendre aux Lieux Saints

Rabat, 24/01/04 - SAR le Prince Moulay Rachid a reçu samedi à sa résidence à Rabat, les membres de la délégation officielle devant se rendre aux Lieux Saints de l'Islam pour accomplir les rites du pèlerinage.


Conduite par M. Abbas El Fassi, ministre d'Etat, la délégation est composée de MM. Kaddour Chahboun, gouverneur de la province de Khénifra, Mohamed Ayachi, ambassadeur du Maroc au Mexique, Abdelouahed Jerrari, président de Chambre à la Cour suprême, le Colonel Mohamed Bounoua, officier aux Forces armées royales et de Jilali Chafik, chargé de mission au Cabinet royal.


Dans une déclaration à la presse, à l'issue de cette audience, M. Abbas El Fassi a indiqué que SAR le Prince Moulay Rachid "nous a recommandé d'implorer Dieu de protéger la patrie et de préserver SM le Roi Mohammed VI et l'illustre famille royale et de veiller à ce que les pèlerins marocains puissent accomplir les rites du Haj dans les meilleures conditions".


Les membres de la délégation, a-t-il ajouté, ont exprimé à SAR le Prince Moulay Rachid leur fierté pour la confiance placée en eux par SM le Roi et leur gratitude au Souverain qui leur a offert l'opportunité d'accomplir les rites du Haj.

SAR le Prince Moulay Rachid reçoit la délégation officielle devant se rendre aux Lieux Saints

 

[rosa]

late the king Hassan II, had hesitated a long time between his two sons, for the title of prince heir, because contrary to Mohamed, Rachid resembles a lot, of the point of view character, in Hassan II,; but not to create an incident, Hassan finally choose his eldest son to follow to him; There is what I read on rachid, it is therefore interesting to know, what becomes this man who have be able to be a king

 

[Asma2]

First Mohammed was crown prince since he was born as Mohammed son is. However, I think Rachid would make perfect king. He is the best educated prince on the world, he speaks several languages and he is highly intelligent. And yes he is being compare to his father very often. However, I do not think that there is struggle between brothers at all. In one of the Rachid interview, Rachid spoke highly about Mohammed and about serving him. If someone can find any interviews with Rachid please be so kind and post them. :flower:

 

[Asma2]

Son Altesse Royale Moulay Rachid et la passion du Golf

UN PRINCE SUR LE GREEN


Épris de Golf, Son Altesse Royale le Prince Moulay Rachid ne laisse passer aucune compétition sans faire parler de lui et de ses prouesses sur tous les greens du Maroc. Fin tacticien, à la loyauté et l'intelligence désarmantes, il remporte victoire sur victoire face à des adversaires redoutables. Ce vif intérêt pour le golf ne peut qu'encourager les jeunes qui sont aujourd'hui nombreux à le pratiquer.

Par Hassan BENADAD

Passionné de golf? C'est peu dire dans le cas de son Altesse Royale le Prince Moulay Rachid qui voue à ce sport une attention particulière. À preuve, depuis sa plus tendre enfance, il a participé à toutes les épreuves fédérales d'envergure pour devenir un compétiteur redoutable. L'allure seigneuriale et l'élégance raffinée, Son Altesse Royale manie le club avec une grande aisance et connaît tous les secrets de la plupart des greens du Maroc. Le Prince du golf va même plus loin en participant à la conception des concours comme ce fut le cas pour le Trophée des champions en septembre 1997. Il va sans dire qu'étant un pratiquant assidu, le Prince Moulay Rachid suit de très près l'évolution de cette discipline dans notre pays. Sa constante présence dans la plupart des manifestations golfiques, constitue en outre la meilleure des émulations pour les jeunes. Le président de la Fédération Royale marocaine de golf, Driss Basri, n'a pas manqué de le souligner, dimanche 8 mars, au Royal golf Rabat-Dar Essalam. Au cours de la remise des prix du premier tournoi classic Pro-Am, le président de la FRMG a notamment dit: &laqno;Les golfeurs du royaume voient dans la participation de SAR le prince Moulay Rachid un encouragement précieux.»

Et quelle participation ? Car c'est l'équipe de son Altesse Royale, composée de Omar Lahjomri et de Jalil Bennis qui a remporté haut la main ce tournoi. D'ailleurs depuis sa constitution, la triplette dirigée par Son Altesse Royale a raflé un grand nombre de trophées. En plus de sa virtuosité et de sa mentalité de gagneur, le &laqno;Prince du golf» s'est révélé un véritable stratège pour mener l'équipe r'batie à la victoire contre son homologue casablancaise. Comptant pour la première édition du trophée des champions, cette confrontation s'est déroulée au Royal golf Dar-Essalam à Rabat du 18 au 20 septembre 1997. Elle a mis en prise les meilleurs golfeurs dans toutes les catégories hommes et dames des deux capitales, administrative et économique. Mais avant que les deux sélections du royal golf Dar Essalam et son homologue d'Anfa Mohammedia ne se rencontrent sur les greens, il y a une véritable veillée d'armes des deux côtés pour préparer ce premier Trophée des champions.

L'enjeu était si grand que SAR le Prince Moulay Rachid a dirigé en personne la réunion d'avant compétition et fut même le concepteur de la formule du jeu. De l'autre côté, le multiple champion du Maroc, Mohamed Makroune, et capitaine des Casablancais a établi avec son groupe une stratégie pour contrer leurs adversaires du jour. Ils étaient les favoris et ils étaient confiants, mais l'équipe r'bati va les surprendre durant les deux jours de la compétition. Menés par SAR le Prince Moulay Rachid, les golfeurs de Rabat vont remporter une victoire éclatante sur le score de 15 à 9 . Les favoris n'en revenaient pas et ont promis de leur rendre la pareille lors du match retour dans leur fief au RGAM prévu pour le mois de juin 1998. Le trophée des champions initié par Son Altesse Royale est donc définitivement établi. Une confrontation annuelle qui va contribuer, à coup sûr, à la promotion de ce sport, surtout chez les jeunes, et ce grâce à l'engagement personnel de SAR le Prince Moulay Rachid.

 

[The_One]

Asma, I thank u for your answer, which was very interesting and complete.. I agree with you about all the things u said about him.. He's like that for real and also very kind.Like u said, he's one of those men that doesn't exist anymore..Well, Im glad to hear that. Take care

 

[Dennism]

SA.R. Prince Moulay Rachid defended publicly, Friday May 18, 2001, at the Montesquieu-Bordeaux IV University , a doctoral thesis called: l’Organisation de la Conférence islamique (OCI), a specific study of an international organization. In referring to this brilliant expose which is devoted to the OCL and the specific problems of the Muslim world and the challenges that the organization faces, the jury awarded, with unanimity, this thesis a honorable mention with congratulations from the jury with a special citation for his theis in regard to the interest of the publication, the quality of the work and the topicality of the subject.

Chaired by Hubert Thierry, professor at the University of Paris X, the jury was composed of Jean-Claude Gautron, professor at University Montesquieu-Bordeaux IV, deputy manager of thesis, Said Ihrai, vice-chancellor, professor at the University Mohammed V, deputy manager of thesis, Laurent Lucchini, professor at the University of Paris I, Pantheon-Sorbonne, director at the Institute Maritime of Monaco,, Abdelouahad Belkziz, secretary-general of lOCI and Herve Cassan, professor at the university Rene Descartes Paris V.

Heaps of praise were expressed about this brilliant thesis which was supported by S.A.R. Prince Moulay Rachid. "You have tackled the problems with objectivity and truth by underlining the obstacles and the problems of the OCI ", said Hubert Thierry to the illustrious candidate. And the chair of the jury added that the "interest of the thesis grew continously as one read it". Laurent Lucchini has, for his part, noted the spirit of the work which was scientific, subtle, at a distance and the objective of S.A.R Prince Moulay Rachid.

To salute the open-mindness of SAR prince Moulay Rachid, Jean-Claude Gautron said in his address to his highness: You have made clear your values of reference. You plead for a tolerant Islam.

Hervé Cassan remarked that it was King Hassan II who had advised Prince Moulay Rachid to do a thesis about the OCL. In addition to the obvious political things attached to this choice, there is a little bit of scientific work on this question because it is necessary to piece together at the same time English, French, and Arabic documentation, which requires a linguistic virtuosity that few researchers have and which Prince Moulay Rachid worked out perfectly.

Extremely well documented, this thesis, in two volumes, has been the fruit of labour which has been carried out for five years by S.A.R. Prince Moulay Rachid on the problems of the Moslem world and the way in which lOCI, in a legal and political manner, can take part to solve these problems or to lessen the impact of these problems, lauded Pr. Cassan.

For Said Ihrai, this research will help to contribute, without a doubt to the numerous ambiguïties and erreurs which characterize the current perception of Islam and the Moslem world and also the great injustice which weigh on the OCI, which are often ignored and underestimated, and on its leaders.

And the co-directeur of the jury stressed that the interest in this study also resides in its topicality in that it was carried out at at time when after the dismantling of the Soviet block, when Islam is wrongly presented as being the new adversary of the capitalist world.

Former French Prime Minister and mayor of Bordeaux, Alain Juppé, expressed his happiness following the resounding success that S.A.R. Prince Moulay Rachid gained for the defense of his thesis of doctorate.

 

[Asma2]

Thanks Dennism. What a job. :flower:

I would like to read his work especially if he is being open-minded and objective about the problems of the OCI.

 

[Asma2]

HRH Prince Moulay Rachid receives French Air Army General

RABAT, Apr. 22 – HRH Prince Moulay Rachid, younger brother of HM King Mohammed Vi of Morocco, received, in his residence in Rabat, Jean-Philippe Douin, French Air Army General.

At the time of this audience, the General Douin, was accompanied by the ambassador of France Mr. Frederic Grasset.

General jean-Philippe’s visit to Morocco is part of the “strengthening of friendship ties between Morocco and France.

Great Price HM the King Mohammed VI of the horse-races: HRH Prince Moulay Rachid gives the prices to the winners

25.04.2004|21h13

His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid chaired, Sunday afternoon with the hippodrome of Casablanca-Anfa, the ceremony of handing-over of the Great Prices of His Majesty the King Mohammed VI and of HRH Prince Moulay Rachid of the horse-races. On his arrival, HRH Prince Moulay Rachid reviewed a detachment of the auxiliary forces which returned the honors, before being greeted by the Minister for Agriculture and from the rural Development, Mr. Mohand Laenser, Wali of the area of Large Casablanca, Mr. Me Hamed Dryef, the secretary-general of the sector of the Sports, Mr. Abderrahmane Zidouh, the president of the Council of the area of Large Casablanca, Mr. Mohamed Chafik Benkirane, the president of the urban District of Casablanca, Mr. Mohamed Sajid, the commander of the Place of weapons of Casablanca, Colonel-Major Abdallah Hassani, the governor of the Prefecture of the districts of Casablanca-Anfa, Amal Benboubker, them of organization of the international Race of the horses Arab thoroughbred and by other personalities.

HRH Prince Moulay Rachid giving the Great Price Mohammed VI to the winner. PH HIHI

His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid, thereafter, joined the grandstand to follow the course of the stages of the Great Price of HM King Mohammed VI, which knew the participation of 10 horses: Morocco (5), Saudi Arabia (2), Belgium (2) and France (1).

The Great Price of HM King Mohammed VI was gained by the horse "Wafa Oura", assembled by Saoudien Bandar Hamdan, after having traversed the distance of 2000 m in 2 minutes, 15 seconds.

The second place returned to Charles Nora on "Guardor de Dozouls", whereas Thami Zergane on "Muscado de Chaillac" allocated the third place.
At the end of this race, HRH Prince Moulay Rachid gave the Great Price of HM King Mohammed VI to the military attaché of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Morocco and Mr. Moutlak Ben Moucharraf, the trainer of the horse, in the name of the owner.

His Royal Highness also gave the Great Price of His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid on 1.400 m to the person in charge for the French stables, after the horse "Beam of Dar" assembled by the French Charles Nora gained the race by traversing the distance in 1 minute, 33 seconds.


Picture
Picture, 2

Casablanca, 30/04/04 - HM King Mohammed VI, Amir Al Mouminine, accompanied by HRH Prince Moulay Rachid, chaired, Friday in the Royal Palate in Casablanca, the ceremony of handing-over of Dahirs of nomination to the members of the Higher Council and the presidents of the local Councils of Oulémas, with the three central directors with the ministry for Habous and the Islamic Businesses and with the regional delegates of the Islamic Businesses.

http://www.map.co.ma/mapfr/Act_Royales_200...rs_g_300404.jpg

HRH Prince Moulay Rachid chairs a lunch

30/04/04


HRH Prince Moulay Rachid chaired, Friday in the Royal Palate in Casablanca, a lunch offered by HM King Mohammed VI, in the honor of the personalities named by the Sovereign within the framework of the reorganization and the management of the religious fields. To this lunch were invited , Prime Minister, the presidents of the two rooms of the Parliament, Advisers of King, the members of the government, the president of the constitutional Council, the president of the supreme court and several civil and military personalities.

 

[Asma2]

HRH Prince Moulay Rachid received the general manager of the American Agency for the international development


HRH Prince Moulay Rachid received, yesterday afternoon with his residence in Rabat, the general manager of the American Agency for the international development, Mr. Andrew S. Natsios, which is on work visit in Morocco. Mr. Natsios was accompanied by his adviser to the political businesses, the representative of the American Agency for the international development to Morocco, Mr. Jim Bednar, and of the ambassador of the United States in Rabat, Mr. Thomas T Riley. The audience proceeded in the presence of Mr. Taïeb Fassi Fihri, minister delegated to the Foreign Affairs and the Co-operation.

His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid discussed with Mr. Mr. Andrew S. Natsios. the relations between the American Agency and Morocco and it will be consolidated within the framework of the Morocco-American Free trade agreement.



picture

 

[Asma2]

HRH Prince Moulay Rachid will lead the Moroccan delegation in Zurich: as a voter for Morocco, the FIFA will return justice to all Africa

10.05.2004

HRH Prince Moulay Rachid will chair, this weekend, the Moroccan official delegation to Zurich to attend the verdict of the FIFA relating to the organization of the World 2010, which will be returned Saturday May 15 at 13 hours. At a few days thus of this significant decision, in spite of the contradictory rumours, environment around the preparations of this ceremony remains feverish.

Morocco, extremely of its assets, is the most entitled to become the first African host of the World cup of football, and the FIFA will do nothing but return justice to the Kingdom by allotting the edition 2010 to it, estimated the ambassadors of the candidature of Morocco, in declarations with the MAP.

This right does not suffer from any dispute. Not only its sporting anthology and its footballistic history militate in its favour and make serieux claiming with this honor, but also because it was with before guard of the continent by trying the adventure in 1987 and by taking up this challenge.

Countries of stability and peace, its proximity of the world center of football, its enracinée ground culture of football and its legendary hospitality are as many capable assets being able to enable him to ensure the success of a competition of the width of a world cup.

Thus, legendary the Right Fountain, better striker of a final phase of world with thirteen achievements (Sweden-1958), said of calms and an insurance of striker whom the FIFA must take into account the aspect of safety, and in this case, Morocco, ground of peace and tolerance where the religions monotheists are côtoient, is largely favorite.

The Commission Report of inspection technical of the international Federation does not mean large thing for this goaleador which had begun football in its birthplace Marrakech and which, borrowing from the rhetoric of football, estimates that the race for the victory is played in the form of championship until last the day and minutes.

For the former trainer of the Lions of the Atlas, Morocco has all the assets so that this first world in Africa is a success on all the plans.

On his side, the "prince of the park" Abderrahmane Belmahjoub, first African who played a final phase of world cup in 1954 with the French selection, the candidature of Morocco, presented in the name of Africa but also of the worlds Arab and Islamic, is not any more one dream but a reality after the FIFA decided principle of the alternation of the continents.

Of these artists of the round balloon given birth to by Morocco, Mohamed Timoumi is more than trustful as for the exit of the vote of the FIFA. It is completely logical that the Moroccan file can profit from the priority and that the FIFA decides with equity by granting the right to shelter the world one with the Kingdom which had the first taken makes and causes for the continent while standing as a candidate for the first time in 1987.

For the African gold balloon in 1985 and one of the stars of the world Mexican of 1986, the chances of Morocco are stronger than at the time of the preceding candidatures since the fight is limited to the African candidates and favours is in favour of the Kingdom, carries torch of continental football.

The double championne of the world of the 400m hedges, Nezha Bidouane, divides the same opinions. "It would be unjust that a country other than Morocco can shelter this world. The Kingdom is able to organize a marvellous world cup which will remain engraved in the memories ", has it says, quoting in example the world ones of Cross-country race country of Marrakech in 1998, a competition that the international Federation of athletics (IAAf) qualified edition of the 20th century.
"It is sure that the world 2010 in Morocco will be by far the best world cup since 1930. World A need for Morocco and the Kingdom deserve to organize it ", added Bidouane.

For the best athlete in the world since three years, Hicham El Guerrouj, the FIFA will be on May 15 in front of its historical responsibilities.
"It is the FIFA which will make its examination of conscience since Morocco satisfied all the requirements. The ball is in the camp of the FIFA ".

Many are the Morrocans among the pioneers and virtuosos of the world round balloon who could not concretize their dream to play a final phase, but their hope currently is of living the world one as organizing country in a Kingdom which will reveal in the world the potentialities and the know-how of the Morrocans to assemble most beautiful creations, added El Guerrouj.

For its part, the championne Olympic Nawal El Moutawakil, which had melted in tears, July 7, 2000, after elimination with the first turn of Morocco in the race at the world 2006 (Germany), expressed the wish that on next 15 May will remain a date engraved in annals of Moroccan and African football.

The members of the executive committee of the FIFA must be logical with themselves and to return justice to the country which deserves to shelter this event and which can be only Morocco, concluded Mrs. El Moutawakil which is also member of the Olympic international committee.

 

[Asma2]

Morocco, South Africa compete for Africa's first World Cup

Morocco attracts heavyweight support, from France, Spain, SA hopes could be dashed again.

By Guy Jackson – ZURICH

Morocco and South Africa are lobbying hard this week in the corridors of governments and sports federations worldwide looking for the support to become the first African country to host a World Cup finals.

South Africa lost out to Germany by a single vote in the controversial vote for the 2006 finals and is determined it will win the glittering prize this time when 24 of world football body FIFA's most powerful officials make their choice in Zurich on Saturday.

The stakes are enormous - hosting football's showpiece event is worth five billion dollars at a rough estimate and billions more in prestige.

Five nations are bidding, but it has become largely a two-horse race, with Egypt as outsiders and Tunisia and Libya making up the numbers.

South Africa were favourites to host the 2006 World Cup before football's murky politics and power games took over.

The Oceania representative, Charles Dempsey, abstained in the last round of voting in the knowledge that Germany were leading 12-11 and that in the event of a draw the casting vote goes to FIFA President Sepp Blatter, who was likely to have chosen South Africa.

With Morocco apparently closing fast on South Africa, Blatter fears this vote may be so close that he will have to make that casting vote this time.

"I hope I will not be in that position," Blatter said.

Ever since Blatter decided the 2010 tournament would be in Africa, South Africa have been the front-runners, trumpeting their success in hosting the 1993 Rugby World Cup and the Cricket World Cup last year.

South Africa is also hoping that it will be awarded the finals as a reward for ten years of democracy following the end of apartheid.

Former president Nelson Mandela has agreed to attend the vote to give the bid a last-minute push in what is expected to be his last major function before withdrawing from public life.

Morocco however has attracted heavyweight support, including from France and Spain, raising fears in South Africa that the Rainbow Nation's hopes could be dashed again.

Morocco will be represented by HRH Prince Moulay Rachid.

FIFA's inspectors rated South Africa's bid excellent, but bid chief Danny Jordaan said the favourite's tag was meaningless.

"The lesson we learned from last time is that it's not over until the final whistle," Jordaan said in Kuala Lumpur last weekend, where he was lobbying the four Asian members of the FIFA Executive Committee which makes the final decision.

"A lot of officials from different countries and confederations have said they support us, which is always welcome," Jordaan said.

"But it won't win us the World Cup. What matters is persuading 13 members of the FIFA executive committee that we have the best bid."

Morocco has played up its proximity to Europe as a factor in its favour, allowing European fans and corporate guests to fly in on the day of matches.

Senegalese President Abdoulaye Wade will accompany the Moroccan delegation to Zurich, lending the North Africans valuable support from the west of the continent.

"A World Cup in Morocco will be a World Cup for the whole of Africa," said bid chief Saad Kettani.

Morocco also have the experienced guidance of US lawyer Alan Rothenberg, who organised the 1994 World Cup in the United States, the tournament that Morocco missed out on staging by a single vote.

"Everyone had sympathy for South Africa after its failure, but don't forget that Morocco had the same experience in 1994," he said.

 

[Asma2]

:flower: ZURICH, May 14 - Prince Moulay Rachid read out Friday an address by HM King Mohammed VI before the members of the executive committee of the International Federation of Football (FIFA).

Here follows the full text of the address:


Mr. President,
Distinguished Members of the Executive Committee,

It is a privilege for me to represent my brother, His Majesty King Mohammed VI, who sends you his warmest greetings along with a message which reflects the hopes and ambitions of a whole nation yearning for the honour of organizing the 2010 World Cup finals, a nation which is braced to take up this exciting challenge and make it a most memorable event.

Mr. President,
Distinguished Members of the Executive Committee,

Morocco is vying for the honour to host the FIFA World Cup in 2010. Ours is a country which is proud of its age-old history and , at the same time, open to the world and determined to maintain a forward-looking vision.

Morocco is a democratic country where young people can voice their ambitions and develop their numerous gifts and talents.

Regardless of the bid to host this tournament, we are endeavouring to develop our nation and forge a modern state. We are therefore extending our motorway network and building new airports and stadiums.

FIFA may rest assured that all the necessary logistical support and facilities will be available, including hospitals, clinics and emergency services, both private and state-owned, nation-wide telephone services, standard as well as cellular, in addition to making the World Cup a highly enjoyable and exciting experience, likely to come up to the expectations of the most ardent football fans.

I have asked the government to provide the firmest assurances as to the safety measures it will take in order to meet your requirements, which happen to be the same as ours.

Morocco is offering you the key to a successful, trouble-free World Cup:

Your guests bill our guests;
Your friends will be our friends;
Your teams will be our teams.

We all want football to remain the most universal, popular and convivial entertainment.

Mr. President,
Distinguished Members of the Executive Committee,

Morocco is not only keen to organize a flawless World Cup, but, just like FIFA, it seeks to give meaning to the most popular of all sport competitions. Having raised the banner of African footbll so high, Morocco will now do its best to ensure that this World Cup achieves the remarkable feat of making football the driving force behind a determined and combined effort to meet the challenges awaiting our continent, in terms of sustainable and peaceful development.

It is only natural that Morocco should work towards this objective, because it is a land of peace and tolerance. Our history and our institutions bear testimony to this.

In a world too often affected by violence and all sorts of extremism, your organization is working relentlessly to ensure that football, and the ideals it stands for, contribute effectively to shaping a better world.

We strongly believe the World Cup carries the message that violence and despair are not inevitable. Morocco wishes to join FIFA in sending out this very message to the world.

When the 2010 World Cup competitions come to a close in Morocco, you will be proud to have entrusted an African nation with the honour of hosting such a great event.

Wassalamu Alaikum Warahmatullah Wabarakatuh.

 

[Asma2]

Landing the 2010 World Cup of football in Morocco, will be a “ fabulous festival and will benefit the whole African continent”, Morocco’s bidding committee chief told on Friday the 24 member of the Fifa executive committee. The latter will decide on Saturday which of the now four bidding countries will stage the most prestigious and coveted sports event in the world.


Saad Kettani who was putting Morocco’s case at the final presentation by bidding countries, insisted on the safety issue saying the kingdom is “risk-free”.
"Morocco does not joke with security, it will be at its highest level," he said in an allusion to South African rival so much criticized for the lack of security.


"Hosting the 2010 World Cup finals would be a consecration of our status as a continent, as a juncture of continents," Kettani emphasized.


"In staging this competition, it is a nation of football that invites the football family on a land of football, Morocco,” said on his part Hosni Benslimane, chairman of the Moroccan Royal Federation of Football.

President of Senegal, Abdoulaye Wade, who is among the 250 member strong Moroccan delegation that flew to Zurich to attend the ceremony, pleaded in favor of Morocco whose bid, he said, is seen as an “immense hope for the future and the development of (African) continent.”

He was echoed by former Spanish Prime Minister, Felipe Gonzalez who praised the “football without borders” initiative, before emphasizing the need to land this cup in Morocco to “fill the gap between the Muslim and Western worlds and to favor a world living in peace.”


Recalling the democratic process under way in the kingdom, Gonzalez noted said Morocco’s bid is backed by several heads of state and prominent figures.

On her part, famous French movie star, Isabelle Adjani said “by picking up Morocco to stage the World Cup, Fifa will favor peace.”

During the presentation, HRH Prince Moulay Rachid, brother of HM King Mohammed VI of Morocco read a message from the monarch to the Fifa executive committee in which he deemed that Morocco’s bid to host the 2010 World Cup of football is a “key to a successful, trouble-free World Cup”.

HM the King insisted that Morocco is “not only keen to organize a flawless World Cup, but, just like Fifa, it seeks to give meaning to the most popular of all sport competitions.”

“Morocco is offering you the key to a successful, trouble-free World Cup (…)” the sovereign went on.

He reassured Fifa “jury” that all the necessary logistical support and facilities will be available, by 2010, insisting in particular on security, one of the main concern of Fifa.

The monarch also said he “strongly believes that the World Cup carries the message that violence and despair are not inevitable. Morocco wishes to join Fifa in sending out this very message to the world.”, he underlined.

Very confident, just like the whole Moroccan people, HM King Mohammed Vi concluded: “when the 2010 World Cup competitions come to a close in Morocco, you will be proud to have entrusted an African nation with the honour of hosting such a great event.”


During the presentation by bidding countries, Tunisia announced officially its withdrawal, which brings down to four the number of candidate countries: Morocco, South Africa, Egypt and Libya.

 

[Asma2]

Nice gesture from Prince My Rachid, when he came to the supporters of Morocco. I can’t wait for tomorrow’s results. B)

While, I’m sad that Morocco did not win the cup, I believe that Moroccans are winners anyway. Moroccans proved that Huntington’s theory of “The Clash of Civilizations” is wrong, by their spontaneity, invitations to the people of other nations, their goodwill to show their country, culture, their ways of living. It is very important, especially those days.

I have to give huge credit to Prince My Rachid for taking part in it, as well, there were some reports that MRF actually financed that bid and ensured the financing for whole cup. I don’t know how much correct the info is (it was reported by SA), but it’s nice from MRF that they use their fortune for the good of Moroccans.

I’m sure that they’ll try again and win. :flower:

 

[Asma2]

Under the presidency of HRH Prince Moulay Rachid: Congress of the Arab Union of the pioneers scouts and the guides


17.05.2004|20h35

HRH Prince Moulay Rachid chaired, in Casablanca, the ceremony of closure 4th congress of the Arab Union of the pioneers scouts and the guides.
On his arrival HRH Prince Moulay Rachid reviewed a detachment of the auxiliary Forces which returned the honors before being greeted by the Secretary of State in charge of Youth, Mr. Mohamed El Gahs, the wali of the area, Mr. Mohamed Dryef, the presidents of the Councils of the area and the town of Casablanca and the governor of the prefecture of Casablanca-Anfa.

Placed under the High Patronage of HM King Mohammed VI and the effective presidency of HRH Prince Moulay Rachid, the 4th congress of the Arab Union of the pioneers scouts and the guides had opened last Friday in Casablanca, under the topic "the role of the pioneers of scouting in the durable development".

After reading of verses coranic, the ceremony of fence was marked by the execution of the official anthem of the national Federation of Moroccan scouting and the presentation of a spectacle entitled "the children of Morocco".

At the time of this ceremony, MISTERS Afilal, Bakouch and Salem Joumâa made addresses in which they expressed their thanks and gratitude with HM King Mohammed VI for the solicitude whose Sovereign surrounded work of this congress like to HRH Prince Moulay Rachid, for his effective presidency, putting forward the cordial reception and hospitality that Morocco reserved to the participants in this meeting.

They also stressed the importance of the movement scout in the diffusion and the propagation of the values of tolerance, coexistence and friendship between the people.

With the exit of these interventions, reading was given of a message of loyalty and fidelity addressed to HM King by the president of the congress, Taoufiq El Gharbi in the name of the participants.

It was also carried out to the handing-over of the collars of the Arab Organization of the scouting and the Arab Federation of the pioneers with HRH Prince Moulay Rachid.

Thereafter, HRH Prince Moulay Rachid was greeted by the presidents of the delegations having taken part in the congress representing Algeria, Libya, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, the Plain Arab Emirates, Tunisia and Morocco before posing for a photograph memory with the participants.

This fourth congress, which coincided with the celebration of the twentieth anniversary of the Arab Union of the pioneers of scouting, recorded the participation of several persons in charge and actors of the various leagues and associations at the origin of the movement scout on the scale of the Arab world.

The work of this meeting concerned, in particular, the examination and the adoption of the reports/ratios of the Union as well as draft amendments of the statutes and action plan for the three next years and the election of four members at the executive committee.

Arab Union of the pioneers of scouting ambitionne, inter alia, to reinforce the relations of co-operation and friendship between the leagues and the national committees of the pioneers of scouting.


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