The Academy of the Kingdom of Morocco inducted Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Holy See, as an associate member during a ceremony held in Rabat.
The distinction recognizes the career of one of the Vatican’s most influential diplomats, whose efforts to promote dialogue, peace and understanding among peoples were highlighted throughout the event.
Held at the academy’s headquarters, the ceremony brought together religious, diplomatic, and academic figures representing the three monotheistic faiths. In his tribute, the institution’s Permanent Secretary, Abdeljalil Lahjomri, praised Cardinal Parolin’s commitment to peace and dialogue among nations, describing his work as rooted in universal values and in “a moral law that transcends borders, status and eras.”
Chaired by André Azoulay, adviser to King Mohammed VI, the session also served as an opportunity to reaffirm the depth of relations between Morocco and the Holy See.
Lahjomri noted that the induction comes as the two states mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations. He recalled several milestones in that partnership, including King Mohammed VI’s visit to the Vatican and the visit of Pope Francis to Rabat in 2019, which became a symbol of interfaith dialogue and coexistence.
In his address, Lahjomri placed the induction within the broader context of a world facing persistent conflicts, rising extremism, and new challenges stemming from rapid technological change.
He specifically pointed to questions raised by advances in artificial intelligence and their implications for human values and social cohesion.
Cardinal Parolin used the occasion to call for stronger bonds of fraternity among nations.
“The world needs to recognize itself as one human family, to work together, cooperate, accept one another, respect one another, and love one another. Without that, humanity will never know peace,” he said.
The Vatican’s top diplomat stressed that lasting peace can only be built through dialogue and mutual understanding.
“The way to resolve conflicts is neither through force nor violence, but through dialogue and respect,” he added.
Among those attending the ceremony was Moroccan novelist and member of the Academy of the Kingdom, Tahar Ben Jelloun, who described the induction as “exceptional.”
He emphasized Cardinal Parolin’s central role within the Vatican, noting that as Secretary of State he is the second-highest-ranking official in the Holy See. According to Ben Jelloun, the joining reflects the strength of the longstanding relationship between Morocco and the Vatican.
French writer Jérôme Clément, who is also a member of the Academy of the Kingdom, highlighted the symbolic significance of the induction at a time of growing international tensions and conflicts.
“It is not an option but a necessity,” he said of interfaith dialogue. “It is a collective responsibility, whether one is Christian or Muslim.”
