Rabat: Morocco reiterated its commitment to peace, security, and sustainable development in Africa during the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU). The country emphasized several priorities in the strategic vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI for a prosperous, integrated, and peaceful Africa.
According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, the Moroccan delegation spoke at a meeting focused on the presentation of a report by the African Union Peace and Security Council (AU-PSC) on its activities and the state of peace and security in Africa, alongside another report on ‘Silencing the Guns in Africa.’ The delegation underscored that a strictly military-security approach, while necessary, is not sufficient on its own to address the continent’s challenges.
The delegation highlighted the need for a comprehensive vision that integrates socio-economic dimensions to ensure lasting peace. This approach, known as the ‘Tangier Declaration,’ was endorsed by the AU Conference in February 2023 and emphasizes the development-peace-security nexus as essential to resolving African crises.
Morocco’s commitment to preventing conflict and promoting good governance was also emphasized, with a recall of its contribution to the specialized training of AU election observers from the continent’s five regions. This initiative aims to consolidate democratic governance and anchor honest electoral processes, which are crucial for political and social stability in Africa.
Regarding the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the use of the African Standby Force (ASF), Morocco expressed support for the engagement plan proposed by AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Bankole Adeoye. It called for an acceleration of the engagement process with the Peace and Security Council, the Regional Economic Communities (RECs), and other stakeholders on the continent, including the Specialized Technical Committee on Defense, Security and Safety (STCDSS).
The Moroccan side reiterated the pressing need to respect the fundamental principles of good neighborliness, dialogue, and non-interference in the internal affairs of states. It stressed the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries and called for the avoidance of harboring or inciting terrorist and separatist groups, which threaten the stability of African regions.
In conclusion, Morocco, as a member of the AU Peace and Security Council, reaffirmed its commitment to actively contribute to the consolidation of peace and security on the continent. The Kingdom assured that it will continue to support initiatives aimed at strengthening stability and development in Africa, in line with the vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.
The Moroccan delegation congratulated Bankole Adeoye on his re-election as AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, acknowledging his efforts to preserve and consolidate peace and security in Africa and expressing confidence in his ability to continue this mission.
Morocco’s intervention at the AU Summit highlighted its central role in promoting peace, security, and development in Africa. By advocating a holistic approach and supporting concrete initiatives, Morocco positions itself as a key player for a prosperous and stable future of the African continent.