Rabat — Moroccan Affairs Minister Nasser Boruita said Morocco remains focused on advancing its own bilateral ties and diplomatic gains, and does not involve itself in diplomatic dynamics between France and Algeria.
Bourita made his remarks in a new interview with Le Point on the sidelines of the recent State visit made by French President Emmanuel Macron to Morocco from October 28-30.
Le Point’s interview with Bourita, which went online on Saturday, recalled Morocco’s approach of principled non-interference in other countries’ domestic affairs.
Bourita’s reassurance, however, comes amid Algeria’s ongoing hostility and interference in Morocco’s internal affairs.
“Morocco does not intervene in the relations that other countries maintain with Algeria. We focus exclusively on our bilateral relationships with our partners, leaving each country free to develop ties with Algeria as it sees it,” he said.
Ties with Israel
The Moroccan diplomat emphasized that if Algeria perceives Morocco’s expanding ties with other countries as a threat, it is solely the Algerian regime’s interpretation. He added that Morocco’s priority remains to be advancing its own ties based on national interests.
Bourita also discussed several aspects on the topic, including the Moroccan Jewish heritage and the Palestinian cause.
Discussing the situation with Israel, Bourita said the resumption of ties does not imply support for the Israeli government’s actions.
“Morocco has strongly condemned, at the highest level, Israeli attacks on civilians, hospitals, and schools, deeming them unacceptable,” Bourita said, noting that King Mohammed VI has also reaffirmed his commitment to the Palestinian cause upon re-establishing ties with Israel.
Morocco’s approach does not signify abandonment to this cause, Bourita added, noting that the country’s stance in solidarity is a priority alongside the Sahara issue.
“This principled stance tolerates neither compromise nor silence and is regularly expressed by the highest authority in the state,” he said.
Moroccan autonomy plan
During the interview, Bourita also recalled France’s historic decision recognizing full support of Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces in Western Sahara.
Bourita said France’s position lies in its starting point that “the present and future of the Sahara are framed within Moroccan sovereignty.”
He also recalled the importance of the Autonomy Plan and the momentum it has gained throughout the years, garnering support from over 112 countries worldwide including more than 20 from the Americas.
Bourita said almost three quarters of Africa’s countries and many EU countries also expressed support for Morocco’s initiative, adding that the international dynamic spans all continents and regions.
French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted the importance of the autonomy initiative, adding that France’s position is rooted in history and respectful of realities.
He added that France will implement its position to support Morocco in international forums.
“And I also say here that this position is not hostile to anyone,” Macron said in his address to the Moroccan Parliament earlier this week.
