Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita met with Syrian FM Assaad Al-Chibani in Mecca, showcasing a potential thaw in diplomatic ties. Bourita emphasized Morocco’s support for Syrian unity and the aspirations of its people. This meeting occurred alongside a GCC session addressing strategic partnerships and regional issues, including Western Sahara.
On Thursday, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita met with Syrian Foreign Minister Assaad Hassan Al-Chibani in Mecca, indicating a potential positive shift in diplomatic relations between Morocco and Syria. Bourita reaffirmed Morocco’s commitment to Syria’s unity and national sovereignty, expressing, “The Kingdom of Morocco follows closely the important developments in Syria,” while emphasizing support for the aspirations of the Syrian people toward stability and development.
This meeting occurred during the seventh joint ministerial session between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Morocco. Chaired by Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al Yahya, the gathering focused on enhancing strategic partnerships. This diplomatic overture follows King Mohammed VI’s message of congratulations to Syria’s transitional president, Ahmad Al-Sharaa, emphasizing Morocco’s dedication to promoting regional peace and stability.
With this latest engagement, Morocco is altering its previous stance marked by the closure of its embassy in Damascus in 2012 due to fundamental disagreements with the Assad regime. Given the recent changes in Syria’s government since December 8, discussions regarding the potential reopening of Morocco’s embassy in Damascus have commenced.
The current developments signify an important turnaround in Morocco-Syria relations, which have historically been strained. Traditionally, Syria supported Algeria during regional conflicts and had affiliations with the separatist Polisario Front. Reports have additionally surfaced regarding Iran’s training operations for members of the Polisario Front on Syrian soil under the Assad regime.
The GCC meetings in Mecca also addressed the issue of Western Sahara, with Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi referencing UN Security Council Resolution 2756. The GCC firmly reiterated its support for Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara. Syria’s transitional government has announced plans for a four to five-year transition aimed at establishing electoral frameworks and enacting political reforms, though its future position on various regional matters, including Western Sahara, remains to be clarified.
In conclusion, the meeting between Moroccan and Syrian officials illustrates a notable shift in diplomatic relations as Morocco reiterates its support for Syria’s unity. This development coincides with broader regional support for Syria’s transition towards stability and development. With Morocco considering the reopening of its embassy in Damascus, this may signify a new chapter in Arab diplomatic ties following years of tension. Moreover, the GCC’s firm stance on Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara further illustrates the geopolitical nuances at play in this evolving situation.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
