Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita met with Syrian FM Assaad Al-Chibani in Mecca, signaling improved relations. Bourita reaffirmed Morocco’s support for Syria’s unity and sovereignty during a GCC ministerial meeting. Following a shift in regional dynamics, Morocco considers reopening its embassy in Damascus after previously closing it due to conflicts with the Assad regime. The Syrian transitional government has gained widespread regional support for its transition process.
On Thursday, Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita engaged in discussions with Syrian Foreign Minister Assaad Hassan Al-Chibani in Mecca, a meeting indicating a possible improvement in relations between both nations. Bourita reaffirmed Morocco’s commitment to supporting Syria’s unity and national sovereignty, expressing that the Kingdom closely monitors significant developments within Syria.
The meeting occurred during the seventh joint ministerial assembly of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Morocco. Chaired by Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al Yahya, discussions revolved around strategic partnerships, showcasing Morocco’s active role in regional diplomacy. This engagement follows a message from King Mohammed VI, congratulating Syria’s transitional president Ahmad Al-Sharaa in February and reiterating Morocco’s steadfast support for peace and stability in the region.
Historically, Morocco had strained relations with Syria, particularly following the closure of its embassy in Damascus in 2012 amid the Syrian civil war due to disagreements with the Assad regime. However, in light of recent political changes, there are talks regarding the potential reopening of the Moroccan embassy following the Assad government’s fall.
The discussions also reflect a departure from Syria’s past alliances, including its support for the separatist Polisario Front during the Sand War, and the recent acknowledgment of Iranian involvement in Syria during Assad’s regime. During the GCC meeting, critical discussions surrounding the Western Sahara situation took place, with a reaffirmation of support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the territory.
Syria’s transitional government, led by Al-Sharaa, is set to undertake a four to five-year transition to implement necessary political reforms and electoral processes, although its stance on various regional matters remains to be clarified. There is optimism for a shift in Syria’s foreign policy moving away from Iranian influence, evidenced by support from several Arab nations including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE for Syria’s transition process.
The recent meeting between Morocco and Syria’s foreign ministers signifies a thaw in their previously strained diplomatic relations, with Morocco reiterating its commitment to Syria’s unity and sovereignty. This shift follows significant political changes in the region, along with explicit support from various Arab nations for Syria’s transitional government. The evolving diplomatic landscape marks a noteworthy departure from historical tensions and opens avenues for renewed collaboration between Morocco and Syria.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
