French President: the Late HM Mohammed V, one of the most distinguished figures to be recognized companion of liberation by Gen. De Gaulle

The French president, who dedicated at the Paris Great Mosque the Muslim soldier memorial, paid tribute to Moroccan soldiers who took part in the battle to free France from the yoke of Nazism and Fascism.

He also noted that this ceremony is a tribute to Muslim soldiers, including Moroccans, who died for France and "an emotional moment to honor the soul of Muslims who fought during WWI and then WWII to free France".

This tribute is taking place at a very symbolic site, the Paris Great Mosque which was built in the wake of World War I and which is a the same time a site of religion, of culture and exchanges where all religions meet and all generations can share moments of reverence as well faithfulness to the nation and to the republic.

Over 7,000 Muslim soldiers had fought for the liberation of France, he recalled, underscoring that units from North Africa were the most decorated ones in the French army.