On the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Bolivia expressed its readiness to establish a commercial office in Dakhla, Morocco. This office aims to serve as a gateway for Bolivian products to access African markets. The announcement was made through a joint communiqué signed by Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and his Bolivian counterpart, Héctor Francisco Huanca Gutiérrez.
The joint communiqué also revealed that Bolivia is willing to open a diplomatic representation in Rabat. This move is expected to strengthen bilateral relations between the two nations, fostering cooperation in various areas of mutual interest. The communiqué highlighted the importance of pragmatism, mutual respect, and solidarity in their relationship.
During their meeting at the UN headquarters, the two ministers discussed ways to enhance cooperation between Morocco and Bolivia. They acknowledged the 2007 Moroccan autonomy proposal, which Bolivia considers a potential pathway to a just, sustainable, and mutually acceptable solution. This recognition demonstrates Bolivia's willingness to engage with Morocco on the issue.
The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to fundamental principles of international law, including respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non-interference in internal affairs. They also welcomed the new chapter in their bilateral relations, built on mutual benefits and ongoing dialogue.
To further solidify their relationship, Morocco and Bolivia agreed to intensify high-level political dialogue and establish a renewed institutional framework. This framework aims to support their shared aspirations for a more structured, dynamic, and forward-looking partnership. The two countries have also committed to strengthening bilateral ties in politics and economics.
As a concrete step towards enhancing cooperation, the ministers signed an agreement to abolish visa requirements for holders of diplomatic, official, service, and special passports. Additionally, they inked a Memorandum of Understanding between their respective diplomatic academies. These agreements are expected to facilitate exchanges and collaboration between the two nations.
The meeting between the two ministers resulted in the revival of the Mechanism for Bilateral Political Consultations, established in 1999. This mechanism is designed to structure and sustain bilateral political dialogue, ensuring a more consistent and effective partnership between Morocco and Bolivia.
Key points
- Bolivia offers to open a commercial office in Dakhla, Morocco, to access African markets.
- Morocco and Bolivia agree to intensify high-level political dialogue and strengthen bilateral ties.
- The two countries sign agreements to abolish visa requirements and enhance diplomatic cooperation.
