Rabat: Thanks to the enlightened vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, Morocco has anchored the African continent as the cornerstone of its foreign policy, stated Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, on Thursday during the opening of the 2nd Forum of Chairpersons of Foreign Affairs Committees of African Parliaments.
According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, Bourita emphasized Morocco’s commitment to a comprehensive vision fostering peace, security, and development throughout Africa. The Kingdom respects the territorial integrity of nations, principles of good neighborliness, and refrains from interfering in internal affairs while opposing terrorist and separatist groups that threaten the continent’s stability.
Bourita highlighted that under King Mohammed VI’s leadership, Morocco recognizes the interconnectedness of security, peace, and development, advocating for a multidimensional approach that includes social and economic considerations to ensure lasting peace and prosperity. This approach embodies the ‘African optimism’ that defines Morocco’s engagement with Africa, rooted in a belief in the continent’s potential.
Morocco’s dedication extends beyond rhetoric, focusing on tangible, sustainable solutions. Bourita reiterated King Mohammed VI’s emphasis on boldness, initiative, and responsibility, citing initiatives such as canceling the debts of the least developed African countries and eliminating customs duties on their products. These moves reflect Morocco’s genuine commitment to Africa’s welfare.
Additionally, Bourita mentioned the African Action Summit initiated by the King, the establishment of climate-focused commissions, and the ‘AAA’ Initiative addressing food security challenges. He also highlighted the Atlantic Initiative for Sahel countries and the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline project, underscoring Morocco’s efforts in energy security.
Central to Morocco’s African policy is the focus on the human element. The King’s visits to various African nations have facilitated connections with local populations, leaders, and stakeholders, ensuring that cooperation prioritizes projects in education, health, development, and housing.
Bourita asserted that Morocco’s African commitment reflects its intrinsic connection to the continent, not just as a neighbor but as part of its identity and history. He stressed that Africa’s stability and development are integral to Morocco’s own stability and growth.
The Forum, Bourita noted, exemplifies African nations’ shared awareness of the need for collective efforts to secure a prosperous future. It also reflects the changing global landscape, where traditional diplomacy alone is insufficient, necessitating innovative mechanisms to address complex international challenges.
Parliaments, Bourita argued, play a crucial role in this context, evolving beyond governmental oversight to become idea generators and contributors. He expressed optimism that the Forum will institutionalize as a key platform for reinforcing African identity and strategic choices, with the 2025 edition further solidifying this effort.