Rabat: Ecuador has taken a significant diplomatic step by inaugurating its first embassy in the Maghreb region, located in Rabat, Morocco. The event marks a milestone in the strengthening of Ecuador-Morocco relations and follows Ecuador’s recent decision to end all connections with the so-called ‘sadr’ on October 22, 2024.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, Moroccan Foreign Minister Bourita highlighted the inauguration as a continuation of Ecuador’s efforts to enhance its relationship with Morocco. He noted that Morocco hosts 165 diplomatic missions, including 50 from international organizations. This includes 14 embassies from Latin American countries, establishing Morocco as a ‘bridge’ between Latin America and Africa, with cultural, geographic, and strategic benefits. The diplomatic presence underscores Morocco’s commitment to fostering ties with Latin America as part of its foreign policy.

Bourita emphasized the emerging ‘win-win’ partnership between Morocco and Ecuador, which aims to set an example of effective South-South cooperation. Both countries are committed to expanding collaboration across multiple sectors, fostering a robust partnership that serves mutual interests. He also congratulated Ecuador on appointing an ambassador to lead its new mission in Morocco.

Ecuadorian Foreign Minister Sommerfeld expressed that the embassy’s opening marks a new era of cooperation between the two nations. She reaffirmed Ecuador’s dedication to deepening bilateral relations and strengthening ties in strategic sectors. Sommerfeld highlighted that the Rabat embassy will serve as a ‘gateway to African markets,’ reflecting Ecuador’s determination to elevate its cooperation with Morocco.

The inauguration followed discussions between Bourita and Sommerfeld, during which Ecuador reiterated its support for Morocco’s Autonomy Initiative presented in 2007. Ecuador views this initiative as the basis for a lasting solution to the regional dispute.