Jaime Peypoch Engages with French Communities in Morocco
Between October 17 and 19, 2026, Jaime Peypoch, the president of Français du monde – ADFE, embarked on a significant visit to Morocco, specifically to the cities of Tangier and Rabat. This journey was meticulously organized by Othmane Idrissi Touzani, a prominent member of the national bureau of Français du monde – ADFE, who also heads the local section in Morocco and serves as a counselor for French nationals abroad. Peypoch expressed his deep gratitude to Othmane for the warm welcome and the logistical support provided during his stay. Throughout the three intense days of discussions, the focus was on the development and structuring of the Moroccan network, highlighting the dynamism and local engagement of the sections in Tangier, Rabat, and Casablanca, which serve as a source of inspiration for the entire association.
Key Meetings in Tangier and Rabat
In Tangier, the president held a meeting with the section's bureau and several members, thanking them for their hospitality and insightful discussions regarding local initiatives and concerns. He also met with Qods Bernossi Vaillant, a representative of the FAPEE, and François Vergne, a union representative from CFDT Éducation monde, and visited the Regnault High School, which is directly managed by the AEFE. These meetings provided an opportunity to address the challenges faced by French education in Morocco, impacting both families and educational staff.
Moving on to Rabat, Jaime Peypoch was warmly received by Khadija Belbachir-Belcaid and Marion Berthoud, two vital figures within the local section, at the association's premises. Engaging discussions continued over lunch and dinner, with Mathieu Lescrainier also participating. The president extended his thanks to Élodie Martelière for their in-depth conversations concerning inclusive education and support for students with special educational needs, ensuring that every child finds their rightful place within educational institutions. Members from the Casablanca section, including president Mohammed Bennani, vice-president Hayat Nassif, and bureau member Brahim Noussair, also attended, contributing to discussions on local issues, specific challenges, and perspectives for their initiatives. This engagement reaffirmed the national bureau's support for their commitment and its intention to assist the sections while considering their needs.
During his visit, Peypoch also toured the retirement home in Souissi, Rabat, which left a profound impression on him. This establishment serves as a sanctuary for elderly compatriots, especially those who are isolated or unwell, exemplifying a remarkable act of solidarity. He commended Marion Berthoud and Khadija Belbachir-Belcaid for their dedication to the facility and expressed appreciation for Soukaina Mahi, the psychologist, for her compassionate support of the residents. This experience prompted reflections on potential initiatives that could be tailored to different contexts, recognizing the unique possibilities and realities of each country.
Accompanied by Mathieu Lescrainier, a counselor for French nationals abroad and an elected member of the Assembly of French Citizens Abroad, Peypoch was later received by Ghislaine Esnault, the deputy advisor for cooperation and cultural action at the French embassy. They discussed various topics, including the French educational network in Morocco, AEFE reforms, rising tuition fees, and the importance of inclusive schooling.
The discussions also touched on the upcoming _Printemps de la neuvième_, an event designed to showcase volunteers, their projects, and the work of the sections while mobilizing the French community. This initiative aims to enhance the visibility of Français du monde – ADFE and its global network, leveraging local experiences to strengthen its proposals and capacity for action on behalf of French citizens abroad. These gatherings serve as a vital opportunity to amplify connections and inspire new commitments within the community.
In conclusion, Peypoch expressed heartfelt thanks to Othmane, the teams in Tangier, Rabat, and Casablanca, and everyone who participated in these fruitful encounters, including those not mentioned. Their warm welcome, availability, and commitment significantly enriched these three days. Although the visit was brief, it ignited Peypoch’s desire to return to Morocco and continue these engagements in other countries, connecting with the teams that invigorate the association daily.
As reported by francais-du-monde.org.
