The North African Kingdom of Morocco burst into cheerful celebrations on Friday to mark the marriage of King Mohammed VI to Salma Bennania, a 24-year-old red-headed computer scientist.
In the first public celebration of a royal wedding in the kingdom, thousands of costumed well-wishers from all over the desert kingdom took to the streets leading to the Royal Palace.
Many bore traditional wedding gifts of dates, sandalwood and henna. Before the palace, VIPs were crammed into specially erected stands for official ceremonies presided over by the king's younger brother, Prince Mulay Rachid, according to AFP.
Amongst the dignitaries were most of the nation's top officers of state, and ex-United States President Bill Clinton, who was accompanied by his daughter, Chelsea.
Numerous Gulf State Emirs and the Afghan Foreign Affairs minister Abdulah Abdullah also attended. Rumors had suggested that French president Jacques Chirac, who has strong links with the Moroccan royal family, was invited, however he was not seen.
More than 300 journalists and photographers were specially accredited to record the event, where 200 young Moroccan couples from all parts of the country also feted their marriages at the king's invitation.
Spectacular shows and concerts were held on the outskirts of the capital Rabat and as night fell, the sky was lit by a spectacular and colorful fireworks display. The wedding took place in March but was kept low key because the monarch wanted to show his sympathy for the Palestinian cause. (Albawaba.com)
© 2002 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
