Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita met with Syrian FM Assaad Hassan Al-Chibani in Mecca, reaffirming support for Syria’s unity. This meeting occurred during a GCC summit and indicates a potential thaw in relations post-Assad regime. Notably, it highlights Morocco’s efforts to re-engage diplomatically with Syria after years of tensions, receiving backing from several Arab nations.
On Thursday, Morocco’s Foreign Minister, Nasser Bourita, engaged in discussions with his Syrian counterpart, Assaad Hassan Al-Chibani, in Mecca, indicating a possible improvement in relations between the two nations. Bourita expressed Morocco’s unwavering support for Syria’s unity and national sovereignty, stating that the Kingdom closely monitors significant developments in Syria and backs the aspirations of its people for stability and development.
The encounter occurred amidst the seventh joint ministerial meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Morocco, convened in Mecca on March 6 under the leadership of Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al Yahya, focusing on enhancing strategic partnerships between the two regions. This initiative follows a recent congratulatory message from King Mohammed VI to Syria’s transitional president, Ahmad Al-Sharaa, reiterating Morocco’s steadfast commitment to regional peace and stability.
This diplomatic engagement represents a significant departure from Morocco’s previous stance, marked by the closure of its embassy in Damascus in 2012 due to fundamental disagreements with the Assad regime. Now, with the recent political shifts, the potential reopening of Morocco’s embassy is being discussed, a sign of evolving bilateral ties. Historically, tensions have existed, notably due to Syria’s past support for Algeria during the Sand War and backing for the separatist Polisario Front.
During the GCC meeting in Mecca, discussions also highlighted the Western Sahara issue, affirming the GCC’s unwavering support for Morocco’s sovereignty as referenced in UN Security Council Resolution 2756. Furthermore, Syria’s transitional government is planning a transition period of four to five years, aimed at establishing electoral infrastructure and implementing political reforms.
The new administration’s approach to regional matters, including its stance on Western Sahara, is yet to be clarified, yet it shows potential divergence from the previous regime’s policies. The diplomatic maneuver has garnered widespread support from various Arab nations including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, and Yemen in backing Syria’s transition process.
In summary, Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita’s meeting with Syrian FM Assaad Hassan Al-Chibani reflects a noteworthy shift in diplomatic relations. Morocco’s renewed support for Syria’s unity and national sovereignty is underscored by the historical context of their previous tensions and the evolving regional dynamics. The support from multiple Arab countries for Syria’s transitional government marks a potential new chapter in Middle Eastern diplomacy.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
