Rabat and Shanghai: Strengthening Morocco-China Ties Through Martial Arts

ALDAR/

In a move reflecting the ongoing strengthening of Moroccan-Chinese cooperation and highlighting the role of sports as a bridge between civilizations, the city of Temara witnessed the signing of a historic Memorandum of Understanding between the Royal Moroccan Wushu Kung Fu Federation, represented by its president, and Shanghai University of Sport, represented by its dean.

This agreement marks a major step forward in enhancing cultural and athletic exchange between the two countries, particularly in the field of Wushu Kung Fu.

Mr. Abdelrahman Sanaghi, President of the Royal Moroccan Wushu Kung Fu Federation, expressed his great satisfaction with this long-awaited achievement, emphasizing that this partnership is not a simple agreement, but the result of dedicated efforts and ambitious aspirations to open new opportunities for Wushu practitioners in Morocco.

Sanaghi pointed out that the memorandum will offer unprecedented opportunities for Moroccan athletes and coaches to benefit from China’s deep-rooted expertise in the field through advanced training programs and knowledge exchange, helping raise the overall level of sports in the Kingdom.

On the other hand, Mr. Li Yin, Dean of Shanghai University of Sport, stressed the significance of this cooperation, which goes beyond sports to encompass deeper cultural and civilizational dimensions. He also referred to the historical ties linking China and Morocco, dating back thousands of years as partners on the ancient Silk Road.

Mr. Li Yin highlighted that the “Belt and Road” Initiative, launched by President Xi Jinping in 2017, is founded on principles of openness, shared construction, and mutual benefit, aiming to expand cooperation across promising sectors with added value.

Regarding the signed memorandum, Dean Li Yin affirmed that it embodies the commitment of both parties to deepening cultural exchange and mutual learning between the great civilizations of Morocco and China. He emphasized that sport—especially Wushu Kung Fu—is an effective tool to achieve this goal.

As a leading academic institution in sports, Shanghai University of Sport is committed to providing full support to Moroccan students through initiatives such as the “Belt and Road Summer School” and other programs aimed at refining their talents and equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills.

At the close of the bilateral meeting, Mr. Li Yin extended an invitation to the Royal Moroccan Wushu Federation and talented Moroccan youth to visit Shanghai and the Shanghai University of Sport to take part in exchange programs, training, and academic certification opportunities.