Via Jüdische Allgemeine by Michael Thaidigsmann 21.08.2021
Mr. Berdugo, Israel and Morocco are establishing diplomatic relations. What impact does this have on the Jewish community in your country?
We are very pleased with this development. It is a resumption of diplomatic relations, because in the 1990s there were already diplomatic liaison offices in Tel Aviv and Rabat. And even after their closure in 2000, relations were never completely severed.
You were Morocco's tourism minister 30 years ago. Do you soon expect a strong increase in the number of tourists from Israel?
We already receive more than 40,000 Israeli visitors here each year. These are pilgrims, tourists who come on the High Holidays, or those who want to visit family members. According to official estimates, once the pandemic is over, an influx of 200,000 Israeli tourists is expected annually. This will be a real challenge for our small community. After all, we have to offer reliable kosher food. But we will endeavor to live up to our responsibilities. The government recently issued a new decree that gives the Jewish community in Morocco the exclusive right to use the kosher sign in all areas.
Will non-Jewish Moroccans also travel to Israel?
Given the many inquiries we receive, there are certainly a number of Muslim tourists from Morocco who are interested in visiting Israel, but it is difficult to say how many.
Last week you received the Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid in the synagogue in Casablanca. How would you describe this meeting?
The minister was eager to visit a synagogue in Morocco, and we received him at Beth El, Casablanca's great synagogue. During this moving ceremony, the rabbi also said a blessing for King Mohammed VI. Like all Moroccans, we appreciated that the minister agreed to participate in this prayer.
Is there popular support for close relations with Israel?
Yes, the vast majority of Moroccans are in favor of it. They think it will be beneficial for both countries, in terms of the economy and security, but also culture or health care. People here believe that Morocco's return to the Middle East stage represents an opportunity to resume dialogue for real peace. Morocco can be a credible and sincere mediator.
The interview with Mr. Berdugo, the Secretary General of the Council of Jewish Communities of Morocco, was conducted by Michael Thaidigsmann.
