- Next year will mark a decade since Morocco and Russia signed their historic strategic partnership, a milestone both nations plan to celebrate with extensive diplomatic and cultural exchanges.
MOSCOW – In a significant step to reinforce their long-standing diplomatic relationship, the Foreign Ministers of Morocco and Russia met on Thursday, outlining a comprehensive vision for future cooperation and celebrating a partnership rooted in the 18th century.
Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, held substantive talks in Moscow, resulting in the signing of a memorandum to establish a joint interdepartmental working committee. This new mechanism is designed to deepen the strategic partnership between the two nations.
A Relationship Built on a Robust Legal Framework
Minister Bourita underscored the exceptional depth of bilateral relations, noting they are supported by a vast network of 188 agreements across diverse fields. “This is one of the richest legal frameworks Morocco has with any country,” Bourita stated during a joint press conference.
The partnership is set to reach a milestone next year, marking a decade since the signing of a “deep strategic partnership” memorandum. This foundational agreement was endorsed by King Mohammed VI and President Vladimir Putin in 2016. Bourita confirmed that all 16 agreements signed during the King’s historic visit to Moscow are now in effect.
Expanding Economic and People-to-People Ties
The ministers highlighted significant progress in practical cooperation:
- Tourism & Connectivity: Bourita announced that 2024 is set to be an “exceptional” year for Russian tourist arrivals in Morocco, facilitated by the reinstatement of Royal Air Maroc’s Casablanca-Moscow route with seven weekly flights and the planned launch of a new direct flight to Hamburg.
- Education: Minister Lavrov noted the presence of 4,250 Moroccan students in Russia, with demand for Russian education continuing to grow. He pledged continued support for this academic exchange.
Strategic Alignment on Global and Regional Issues
The diplomatic coordination between Rabat and Moscow was described as strong and multi-faceted.
- Political Dialogue: The newly signed memorandum on political consultations aims to structure and enhance dialogue between their foreign ministries.
- Multilateral Cooperation: Both ministers emphasized their close coordination at international forums, including the United Nations, and within frameworks like Russia-Africa and the Russia-Arab League.
- Shared Vision for a Multipolar World: Bourita articulated a common perspective, stating, “Morocco and Russia are countries that believe in a multipolar world and the UN, but it must be fair and effective.” He stressed the need for UN reform that includes the voices of developing nations.
- Regional Stability: On African affairs, both parties agreed on the principle of respecting the sovereignty and choices of Sahel and Sahara nations. Bourita reiterated Morocco’s commitment to supporting these countries in anti-terror programs and development.
A Forward-Looking Agenda
Looking ahead to the 10th anniversary of the strategic partnership in 2026, both ministers announced plans for a series of high-level events.
- Reciprocal Visits: A program of reciprocal ministerial visits and strengthened parliamentary contacts is planned.
- Cultural Diplomacy: The countries will organize “Russian Culture Days” in Morocco and other cultural activities to showcase the relationship’s depth.
- Joint Committee: The eighth session of the Moroccan-Russian Joint Committee, scheduled for Friday, is expected to yield further agreements in areas like agriculture, fisheries, and academic cooperation.
A Foundation of Trust
Minister Bourita concluded by characterizing his dialogue with Lavrov as “positive and fruitful,” and extended an invitation for the Russian minister to visit Morocco next year to celebrate the partnership anniversary.
The relationship was formally elevated in 2002 with a Declaration on Strategic Partnership, followed by a reciprocal visit by President Putin to Morocco in 2006, cementing a diplomatic bond that continues to evolve.
BY: The Times Union
