Morocco and Syria: A Diplomatic Thaw and Support for Unity
Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita met Syrian FM Assaad Hassan Al-Chibani in Mecca, indicating improved bilateral relations. Bourita reaffirmed Morocco’s support for Syria’s unity and the aspirations of its people. The talks were part of a broader GCC meeting addressing strategic partnerships and the Western Sahara issue, reflecting a significant shift in Morocco’s diplomatic approach after years of strained relations with Syria.
On Thursday, Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita met with Syrian Foreign Minister Assaad Hassan Al-Chibani in Mecca, indicating a potential improvement in relations between the two nations. During this meeting, Bourita reiterated Morocco’s commitment to Syria’s unity and national sovereignty, stating that the Kingdom closely monitors developments in Syria and supports the aspirations of the Syrian people for stability and development.
The discussions were held alongside the seventh joint ministerial meeting between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Morocco on March 6, chaired by Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al Yahya. This gathering focused on enhancing strategic partnerships between the GCC and Morocco, highlighting the growing diplomatic engagement.
This recent diplomatic initiative follows King Mohammed VI’s congratulatory message to Syria’s transitional president Ahmad Al-Sharaa in early February, in which he reaffirmed Morocco’s dedication to regional peace and support for the Syrian people’s quest for stability.
Morocco’s outreach represents a significant shift from its previous stance, having closed its embassy in Damascus in 2012 due to disagreements with the Assad regime. Recent discussions regarding potentially reopening its embassy have intensified following the Assad government’s recent challenges.
Historically strained relations are beginning to improve as Algeria’s backing of the separatist Polisario Front during the Sand War and Iran’s use of Syrian territory to train these members come to light, signaling a need for a recalibration in regional dynamics.
The GCC meeting also tackled the Western Sahara situation, with Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi reasserting unwavering support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the territory, aligning closely with various Arab nations endorsing Syria’s transitional process led by Al-Sharaa.
The new Syrian administration aims for reforms through a four to five-year transition period but has yet to clarify its stance on key regional issues, including Western Sahara. Its opposition to the Iranian influence suggests a possible shift from the past policies of the previous regime. Regional support for this diplomatic initiative underscores the momentum behind Syria’s transition process.
In conclusion, the recent meeting between Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and Syrian Foreign Minister Assaad Hassan Al-Chibani highlights a potentially significant shift in diplomatic relations. Morocco’s reaffirmation of support for Syria’s unity and stability marks a change from its previous stance, as the country navigates a complex regional landscape. The renewed focus on strategic partnerships, alongside the backing for Syria’s transitional government, illustrates a commitment to fostering peace and collaboration in the region.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com