Bernard Montiel in Morocco: a controversial invitation and clarifications
The columnist and host Bernard Montiel recently sparked controversy by attending a state dinner with Emmanuel Macron in Morocco, his birth country. While some internet users question the cost of his presence, Montiel does not hesitate to defend his position by claiming he did not incur any expenses for the French taxpayer.
Born in Casablanca in 1957, Bernard Montiel says he is honored by the invitation from King Mohammed VI during Emmanuel Macron’s official visit. On social media, he emphasized that he was not part of the French delegation but was invited directly by the Royal Palace. He states: “Zero centime for the French taxpayer!”, thus responding to critics who accuse him of abusing public funds.
A dinner under high surveillance
The official trip of the French president aimed primarily to strengthen relations between Paris and Rabat after recent tensions. Accompanied by a large delegation including 122 personalities from the political, sports, and cultural world, Emmanuel Macron also sought to address crucial topics such as immigration and trade between the two nations.
Montiel was present alongside other French celebrities like Teddy Riner and Gérard Darmon. Despite this, his name was not on the list displayed by the Élysée regarding the accredited representatives for this event, which raised questions about his exact role in this diplomatic mission.
Various reactions
Montiel’s presence provoked various reactions on X (formerly Twitter), where he is often criticized for his alleged ties to Brigitte Macron. To ease the tensions surrounding these unfounded accusations according to him, he recalls their long-standing friendship: “We have been very good friends for a long time,” assuring that this is not part of opportunistic cronyism.
Criticism intensified when some users highlighted the expenses related to official trips funded by the state. In this delicate context where every cent counts in the current public debate on the use of public resources, his clarification seems to have had a moderating effect on his immediate detractors.
A multiple identity
Beyond the controversy related to the Moroccan dinner, Bernard Montiel also speaks of his deep attachment to his roots; a sentiment shared by many who spent their youth between different countries or cultures. He thus describes his nationality as being equally divided between Moroccan (one third), Spanish (one third), and French (one third).
His situation perfectly embodies this modern intercultural dynamic where everyone seeks a balance in a globalized society while celebrating their multiple origins.
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This affair also invites a broader reflection on how certain media figures use their platforms to address both their personal experiences and their socio-political engagement in the face of growing public expectations.
