Moroccan and Syrian Ministers Meet in Mecca: Strengthening Diplomatic Ties

Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita met Syrian counterpart Assaad Al-Chibani in Mecca, indicating a thaw in relations. Bourita reaffirmed support for Syria’s unity and aspirations for stability. Discussions followed the GCC meeting, where support for Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara was emphasized. This marks a notable diplomatic shift as Morocco considers reopening its embassy in Damascus.

On Thursday, Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita met with Syrian Foreign Minister Assaad Hassan Al-Chibani in Mecca, indicating a possible improvement in diplomatic relations between Morocco and Syria. Bourita emphasized Morocco’s unwavering support for Syria’s unity and national sovereignty, citing the Kingdom’s keen observation of the important developments in the region and backing for the aspirations of the Syrian people towards stability and development.

The meeting occurred during the seventh joint ministerial meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Morocco on March 6, which focused on strengthening strategic partnerships. This gathering was overseen by Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al Yahya. Notably, the diplomatic engagement builds upon King Mohammed VI’s earlier congratulatory message to Syria’s transitional president Ahmad Al-Sharaa in February, reinforcing Morocco’s commitment to regional peace and the aspirations of the Syrian people.

Morocco’s recent diplomatic activities reflect a significant shift from its previous stance, following the closure of its embassy in Damascus in 2012 during the Syrian civil war due to disagreements with the Assad regime. There are ongoing discussions about reopening the Moroccan embassy in light of the developments surrounding the Assad government after its recent fall on December 8.

This meeting also signifies a departure from a history of strained relations, particularly as Syria had historically supported Algeria during the Sand War and the separatist Polisario Front, with recent reports indicating Iranian training of Polisario Front members in Syria during the previous regime.

During the GCC meeting, discussions included the contentious issue of Western Sahara. Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi reiterated the GCC’s steadfast support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the territory, referencing UN Security Council Resolution 2756 from October 2024.

Syria’s transitional government under Al-Sharaa has proposed a four to five-year transition period for electoral infrastructure and political reforms, with its stance on regional issues, including Western Sahara, yet to be fully articulated. However, its opposition to the Iranian axis may signal a shift from past policies. This diplomatic maneuver has received broad backing from various Arab nations, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, and Yemen, supporting Syria’s transitional process.

In summary, the meeting between Morocco’s and Syria’s foreign ministers in Mecca underscores a potential thaw in relations, with Morocco reaffirming its support for Syria’s unity and the aspirations of its people. The discussions reflect critical diplomatic changes following a prolonged diplomatic freeze. Additionally, the GCC’s reaffirmation of support for Morocco over Western Sahara illustrates the shifting dynamics of regional geopolitics. Overall, the engagement indicates a growing consensus among Arab nations regarding Syria’s transition and broader regional stability.

Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com