Morocco and Syria: A New Chapter in Diplomatic Relations

Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita met Syrian Foreign Minister Assaad Al-Chibani in Mecca, signaling improved relations between Morocco and Syria. Bourita reiterated Morocco’s support for Syria’s unity and highlighted ongoing diplomatic changes post-Assad government. The GCC meeting also reinforced support for Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara, indicating a complex regional realignment.

On March 6, 2023, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita held a significant meeting with Syrian Foreign Minister Assaad Hassan Al-Chibani in Mecca. This meeting indicates a potential warming of relations between Morocco and Syria, reflecting Morocco’s commitment to supporting Syria’s national sovereignty and unity. Bourita expressed that Morocco is closely monitoring developments in Syria, underscoring Moroccan support for the aspirations of the Syrian people towards stability and development.

The meeting occurred during the seventh joint ministerial meeting between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Morocco. Chaired by Kuwait’s Foreign Minister, Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al Yahya, the discussions focused on enhancing strategic partnerships between the GCC and Morocco. This diplomatic dialogue follows a congratulatory message sent by King Mohammed VI to Syria’s transitional president, Ahmad Al-Sharaa, earlier in February, emphasizing Morocco’s dedication to regional peace and stability.

Morocco’s recent diplomatic outreach marks a pivot from its previous stance since it had closed its embassy in Damascus in 2012 due to intense disagreement with the Assad regime. Potential plans indicate the reopening of the Moroccan embassy in light of the changes in Syria’s government, which denotes a significant shift in diplomatic relations. The Syrian government, now under Al-Sharaa, proposes a transitional period of four to five years to facilitate necessary electoral reforms.

Additionally, the GCC meeting addressed the ongoing Western Sahara issue. The Secretary-General of the GCC, Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, reaffirmed the GCC’s unwavering support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the territory. Notably, despite historical tensions, there has been Arab consensus backing the Syrian administration’s transition process, hinting towards a realignment of regional relations.

The recent meeting between Morocco and Syria marks a crucial step towards restoring diplomatic ties. Morocco’s support for Syrian sovereignty and the broader backing from the Arab states indicate a changing political landscape in the region, with potential implications for future governance in Syria. The diplomatic engagements represent both nations’ aspirations for enhanced cooperation and stability amid ongoing regional challenges.

Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com