Morocco Advocates Peace in Sudan, Territorial Integrity in DRC at AU Meeting

Doha – Morocco called for peaceful resolutions to conflicts in both Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) during a high-level African Union Peace and Security Council (AU PSC) meeting, held on Friday in Addis Ababa.

Nasser Bourita, Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, who led the country’s delegation as a member of the AU PSC, emphasized that military solutions would not resolve the Sudanese crisis.

Speaking at the meeting of heads of state and government, Bourita affirmed Morocco’s solidarity with Sudan and readiness to provide necessary support to overcome the current crisis.

The Moroccan delegation successfully proposed a humanitarian truce during the upcoming month of Ramadan to enable unrestricted humanitarian aid access in Sudan. This proposal received unanimous support from the heads of state and government at the meeting.

Regarding the crisis in eastern DRC, Bourita strongly advocated for Morocco’s commitment to the DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

“The persistence of this instability compromises continental peace and security, jeopardizing development efforts and regional cooperation, which requires us all to act with determination and responsibility to initiate a dynamic of peaceful, lasting and sustainable settlement to the conflict,” he stated.

Morocco also stated that dialogue and negotiation are important at this time, expressing firm opposition to any form of separatism. The North African country called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, respect for the ceasefire, and resumption of negotiations in the DRC.

Bourita also urged the need to address civilian suffering by facilitating humanitarian access to affected populations. “Humanitarian aid must be delivered without obstacles, ensuring the protection of populations,” he said, calling for coordinated efforts from the international community and regional actors.

The gathering took place yesterday, just before the AU ordinary summit of heads of state and government, scheduled for February 15-16.

Morocco’s active participation in these discussions comes as part of its strengthened position within the AU since its return to the organization in 2017 after a 33-year absence.

Last Wednesday, at the AU PSC membership elections, Algeria’s continental ambitions were dealt a major blow, as the country failed to secure the required majority for a seat on the council, forcing an unprecedented postponement of the elections.

This diplomatic setback came despite Algeria’s intensive lobbying campaign, marking a further decline in its regional influence. The rescheduled vote is expected within two months, though Algeria’s path to securing the necessary support remains uncertain.