Vienna: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishing a strategic dialogue between Morocco and Austria was signed on Wednesday in Vienna by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, and the Federal Minister for European and International Affairs, Beate Meinl-Reisinger. This agreement reflects the desire of both countries to enhance their friendly relations and cooperation across various fields, particularly in political and economic sectors, with the aim of upgrading their relationship to a strategic partnership. This is in line with the principles of mutual respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, independence, and non-interference in internal affairs.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, the MoU underscores Morocco and Austria’s belief that consultations and information exchange on bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest will foster a deeper understanding between the two nations. The agreement is based on the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, highlighting the importance of the historic partnership between Morocco and Austria. The two countries recently celebrated the 240th anniversary of their diplomatic relations on 28 February 2023.

This MoU is part of the ongoing momentum and progress following Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer’s official visit to Morocco. The visit led to the adoption of a Joint Declaration on 28 March 2023 in Rabat. In this context, Rabat and Vienna have expressed their commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation and establishing a strategic dialogue. This dialogue aims to deepen existing cooperation areas and explore new collaborative opportunities in fields of shared interest.