Paper Title
THE CONFUCIUS INSTITUTE AT HASSAN II UNIVERSITY IN CASABLANCA (H2UC) AS A MODEL OF EDUCATIONAL DIPLOMACY IN THE CONTEXT OF SINO-MOROCCAN RELATIONS

Abstract
This article analyzes how the Confucius Institute at Hassan II University in Casablanca serves as a compelling case of educational diplomacy, fostering language proficiency and cultural exchange under broader Sino–Moroccan cooperation. Drawing upon qualitative data—interviews with founding directors, instructors, and administrators, as well as participant observation of Institute activities—this study highlights how language instruction and cultural programs function as powerful tools for promoting mutual understanding. It illustrates the Institute’s capacity to adapt Chinese language education to Morocco’s multilingual environment, demonstrating that local partnerships and inclusive pedagogical practices enhance both soft power and people-to-people ties. Furthermore, the research finds that institutional collaboration—between Moroccan and Chinese universities, government agencies, and community organizations—plays a pivotal role in sustaining programmatic initiatives. Despite challenges linked to leadership transitions and resource limitations, the Confucius Institute’s successes include developing cross-cultural competencies, facilitating professional opportunities, and inspiring academic collaboration aligned with the Belt and Road Initiative. The findings point to the need for greater localization, robust faculty development, and sustained joint governance to secure the Institute’s long-term influence as an instrument of educational diplomacy in Morocco. Keywords - Educational Diplomacy,Confucius Institute, Sino-Moroccan Relations, Cultural Exchange.