Morocco and Syria: A Step Toward Renewed Diplomatic Relations

Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita met with Syrian FM Assaad Hassan Al-Chibani in Mecca, signaling improved relations. Bourita reaffirmed Morocco’s support for Syria’s unity and outlined Morocco’s commitment to the Syrian people’s stability. This diplomatic engagement follows King Mohammed VI’s congratulatory message to Syria’s transitional president and reflects a potential move towards reopening the Moroccan embassy in Damascus, following years of strained ties.

On Thursday, in Mecca, Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita held discussions with Syrian Foreign Minister Assaad Hassan Al-Chibani, indicating a possible warming of relations between their two nations. During this meeting, Bourita affirmed Morocco’s support for Syria’s unity and its sovereign rights. He noted, “The Kingdom of Morocco follows closely the important developments in Syria,” emphasizing the nation’s commitment to the stability and development of the Syrian people.

The meeting occurred in conjunction with the seventh joint ministerial meeting between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Morocco, which addressed strategic partnerships. Chaired by Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al Yahya, this gathering took place on March 6. It follows King Mohammed VI’s congratulatory message to Syria’s transitional president, Ahmad Al-Sharaa, in February, wherein the King stressed Morocco’s enduring commitment to regional peace.

Historically, Morocco had maintained a distant stance, closing its embassy in Damascus in 2012 due to fundamental disagreements with the Assad government. However, discussions regarding the potential reopening of this embassy have emerged following the recent changes in Syria’s governance. This shift in diplomatic posture suggests an attempt to mend previously strained relations, particularly in light of Syria’s past support for Algeria and the Polisario Front during the Sand War.

Additionally, during the GCC meeting, the agenda included discussions on the Western Sahara conflict, wherein GCC Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi reiterated the organization’s unwavering support for Morocco’s claims over the territory. The transitional government in Syria has plans for the establishment of an electoral framework over the next few years to facilitate necessary political reforms.

The emerging diplomatic relations have received broad support from several Arab nations, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, and Yemen, all backing Syria’s transition efforts after years of regional conflict.

The recent meeting between Morocco and Syria’s foreign ministers represents a significant shift in diplomatic relations, emphasizing Morocco’s commitment to Syria’s sovereignty and stability. As both nations navigate this new chapter, support from the GCC and other Arab countries indicates a collective regional effort toward promoting stability and addressing critical issues such as the Western Sahara. This engagement marks a departure from Morocco’s previous distanced approach, reflecting evolving political dynamics in the Middle East.

Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com