Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita met Syrian Foreign Minister Assaad Hassan Al-Chibani in Mecca, signaling a potential thaw in diplomatic ties. Bourita reiterated support for Syria’s sovereignty while attending the GCC meeting. This development signifies a shift from Morocco’s earlier position, especially following the transition in Syria’s governance.
On Thursday, Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita met Syrian Foreign Minister Assaad Hassan Al-Chibani in Mecca. This encounter signals a possible improvement in diplomatic relations between Morocco and Syria. Bourita underscored Morocco’s commitment to Syria’s unity and sovereignty, stating that “The Kingdom of Morocco follows closely the important developments in Syria,” emphasizing support for the Syrian people’s pursuit of stability and development.
The meeting occurred during the seventh joint ministerial meeting between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Morocco in Mecca 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. This diplomatic effort follows King Mohammed VI’s congratulatory message to Syria’s transitional president Ahmad Al-Sharaa in February, reaffirming Morocco’s dedication to regional peace and the Syrian people’s aspirations.
Morocco’s recent diplomatic moves reflect a shift from its previous stance, having closed its embassy in Damascus in 2012 due to disagreements with the Assad government. With discussions underway about potentially reopening the Moroccan embassy following changes in Syrian governance, this approach signifies a historical pivot given the previously tense relations, which included Syria’s support for Algeria during the Sand War.
Furthermore, recent developments revealed Iran’s previous utilization of Syrian territory for training members of the Polisario Front, complicating past relations. The GCC meeting also addressed the Western Sahara issue, where Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi reiterated support for Morocco’s sovereignty.
Syria’s transitional government, led by Al-Sharaa, is planning a four to five-year period for establishing election infrastructure and implementing reforms, although its position on issues like Western Sahara is yet to be clearly defined. The new administration’s opposition to the Iranian axis indicates a shift from prior policies, and broader support for Syria’s transition has come from several Arab nations including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
In summary, the meeting between Moroccan and Syrian foreign ministers indicates a significant thaw in relations, emphasizing Morocco’s support for Syria’s unity and stability. As discussions of reopening the Moroccan embassy in Syria progress, this illustrates a broader diplomatic reconciliation following historical tensions. With the GCC backing Morocco’s claims in Western Sahara, this diplomatic engagement is positioned within a broader regional context that includes various Arab nations supporting Syria’s transitional government.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
