Moroccan Cafes Gear Up for the World Cup: Emphasizing Peace and Public Order
In anticipation of the upcoming World Cup matches, the Moroccan Association of Café and Restaurant Owners has issued a call to industry professionals to prioritize maintaining public order and ensuring a peaceful atmosphere. This directive coincides with the anticipated late-night matches of the Moroccan national team, known as the "Atlas Lions." The association's statement followed discussions between unions and local authorities, highlighting the commitment of public officials to create conducive conditions for fans to enjoy the World Cup matches in cafes and restaurants.
The association urged professionals to actively engage in ensuring the success of this global sporting event by providing an excellent reception for customers. It emphasized the importance of operating in an organized manner during the matches, even those scheduled for late night hours, while adhering to existing laws and maintaining public order, thereby avoiding any disturbances.
Ahmad Boufkran, the national coordinator of the Moroccan Association of Café and Restaurant Owners, remarked that the World Cup is an exceptional event occurring once every four years, particularly significant with the participation of the Moroccan national team. He noted that every citizen yearns to watch and support their national team, even from the comfort of their homes. Boufkran reassured that the overlap of the tournament with the start of summer vacation reduces concerns about disturbing small children or affecting their wake-up schedules, as most establishments are currently on break, eliminating any genuine obstacles that could disrupt the celebratory atmosphere of fans expressing their joy after a stressful period.
Regarding directives from the authorities, he explained that local officials have made it clear that all workers must be present, and all possible accommodations should be provided to ensure that citizens can watch the World Cup matches comfortably and seamlessly. These accommodations are applicable during both daytime and nighttime, without exception, highlighting that café owners bear the responsibility of respecting public tranquility and shared spaces.
Naima Reiss, the head of the National Federation of Café and Restaurant Owners in the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra region, stressed the crucial importance of considering and respecting neighbors. She pointed out that football matches are temporary events that will pass, while neighbors remain in the vicinity permanently. Reiss emphasized that maintaining mutual respect is essential for a harmonious coexistence at all times.
In her remarks to Hespress, Reiss noted that the nighttime matches are usually attended by neighbors from the immediate area, as those traveling from afar are less likely to come out for late-night viewing. Therefore, attendance often consists primarily of close residents. She mentioned that the focus is currently on broadcasting and following the Moroccan national team's matches, especially those occurring after 11 PM, as there is less interest in watching other foreign teams at such late hours.
This approach offers a degree of flexibility and special handling concerning the matches of the national team during nighttime. Reiss considered that the timing of these games necessitates a flexible arrangement that accommodates the unique nature of the event while ensuring viewership without causing chaos.
As reported by hespress.com.
