Rabat – In a significant diplomatic gesture, Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch has arrived in Paris to represent King Mohammed VI at the highly anticipated opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. The event, which is set to take place on July 26, 2024, promises to be a historic occasion, as it will feature a groundbreaking format for the athlete parade.
Instead of the traditional stadium entry, over 10,000 athletes from around the globe will parade on more than 90 boats along the iconic Seine River, marking a first in Olympic history. This innovative approach is designed to showcase the beauty of Paris while providing a unique experience for both athletes and spectators alike.
Akhannouch’s participation extends beyond the ceremonial duties; he will also engage in the “Sport and Sustainable Development” Summit. This summit, organized by the French Presidency in collaboration with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and supported by the French Development Agency (AFD), aims to bring together global leaders, athletes, and key stakeholders in the sports community to discuss the intersection of sports and sustainable development.
The Moroccan delegation, which began arriving in Paris last Thursday, comprises 60 athletes, including 18 women, who will compete across 19 different Olympic disciplines. This representation underscores Morocco’s commitment to promoting gender equality and inclusivity in sports.
During the opening ceremony, the Moroccan athletes will proudly join their international counterparts in the unique water parade. The Moroccan National Olympic Committee has announced that golfer Ines Laklalech and equestrian Yassine Rahmouni will serve as flag bearers for Morocco, symbolizing national pride and unity.
In addition to the athletic showcase, the opening ceremony will feature contributions from notable figures in the arts. French-Moroccan author and novelist Leïla Slimani has been selected to craft the narrative for the ceremony, under the direction of Thomas Jolly, the Artistic Director of the Ceremonies. The organizers have promised an opening ceremony that is “bold, original, and unique,” aiming to create memorable moments that will be etched in Olympic history.
As the world turns its eyes to Paris, the excitement surrounding the Olympic Games continues to build. The innovative format of the opening ceremony, combined with Morocco’s strong representation, highlights the evolving nature of the Olympics and the commitment of nations to participate in this global celebration of sports and culture.
In the lead-up to the games, there is a palpable sense of anticipation among athletes and fans alike. The Paris 2024 Olympics is set to be a landmark event, showcasing not only athletic prowess but also the rich cultural tapestry of the host city and participating nations.
With the opening ceremony just around the corner, all eyes will be on the Seine River, where history will be made as athletes from every corner of the globe come together to celebrate their hard work, dedication, and the spirit of competition.
