Morocco's Foreign Affairs Minister Nasser Bourita has reaffirmed the country's commitment to the Palestinian cause, stating that Morocco will continue to work towards a solution that preserves the historical and legitimate rights of the Palestinian people. This statement was made during the annual coordination meeting of the foreign ministers of the member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Bourita emphasized Morocco's position against Israeli attacks, particularly in Gaza, and the expansion of settlements in the occupied West Bank.
Bourita recalled Morocco's stance on the Palestinian issue, underlining the need for a solution that leads to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. This approach, he said, is crucial in countering hate speech and extremism, and fostering a Middle East where the peoples of the region enjoy peace, security, and stability. The minister's statement reflects Morocco's ongoing support for a political settlement based on the two-state solution.
The Moroccan foreign minister also highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for full respect for the ceasefire and sustained access to humanitarian assistance. This appeal comes amid ongoing concerns about the situation in Gaza and the need for continued international support. Bourita's comments underscore Morocco's commitment to addressing the humanitarian aspects of the conflict.
In recent months, many Moroccans have been urging the government to cut bilateral ties with Israel, particularly following the conflict in October. However, Bourita has emphasized that Morocco's relations with Israel do not overshadow its position in favor of the Palestinian cause. He cited Morocco's efforts to stabilize Gaza as an example of its commitment to peace in the region.
Bourita also discussed Morocco's decision to upgrade ties with Israel under the Abraham Accords, which has been a subject of controversy among some Moroccans. He explained that Rabat views the Accords as a mechanism to promote peace and stability in the region, and that relations with Israel could enable Morocco to help the Palestinians humanitarianly.
The Moroccan foreign minister emphasized the importance of taking initiatives to address the Palestinian issue, rather than simply engaging in rhetoric. He argued that constructive engagement is necessary to contribute to peace in the region. Bourita's comments reflect Morocco's ongoing efforts to balance its relations with Israel with its long-standing support for the Palestinian cause.
Morocco's position on the Palestinian issue remains a top priority for the country's foreign policy. The government has reiterated its commitment to finding a solution that preserves Palestinian rights and promotes peace in the region. As the situation in the Middle East continues to evolve, Morocco's stance on the Palestinian issue is likely to remain a key aspect of its foreign policy.
Key points
- Morocco's Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita reaffirms country's commitment to Palestinian cause
- Morocco seeks solution that preserves historical and legitimate rights of Palestinian people
- Morocco's relations with Israel do not overshadow its position in favor of Palestinian cause