Morocco and Russia Strengthen Their Strategic Partnership and Affirm Support for International Law
Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita revealed on Thursday a fruitful dialogue with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov, addressing regional and international issues, especially the Moroccan Sahara.
Bourita clarified in a press conference following the meetings that the discussions emphasized the need to find solutions that adhere to international law and global principles, without selective interpretations that could obstruct resolution. He confirmed that Russia, which holds the presidency of the Security Council in October, plays a pivotal role in this file, and that consultations between the two countries will continue in the coming days.
The minister noted that Moroccan-Russian relations are based on a strong strategic partnership established since the signing of the deep cooperation agreement in 2016, noting that 2026 will mark the tenth anniversary of this partnership and a review of shared achievements.
Bourita affirmed that cooperation encompasses the economic and tourism sectors, with an anticipated increase in the number of Russian tourists to Morocco, the resumption of Royal Air Maroc flights between Casablanca and Moscow, and the launch of a new direct route to Saint Petersburg.
The minister announced the signing of a new memorandum of understanding to enhance consultations between the foreign ministries, facilitating better coordination in international forums such as the United Nations and the Russia-Africa Forum. The eighth session of the Morocco-Russia Joint Commission will also take place to review cooperation in agriculture, fishing, and higher education.
Discussions also touched on the Middle East, where Bourita emphasized that Morocco and Russia agree on the necessity of respecting peace agreements and supporting the two-state solution to end the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, praising the role of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, Chairman of the Jerusalem Committee.
For his part, Lavrov confirmed that Russia and Morocco are committed to enhancing economic and investment cooperation, particularly in education, energy, and agriculture, while maintaining stability and peace in the Arab and African regions.
Both ministers stressed that the dialogue between Morocco and Russia is not directed against any party but aims to promote stability and peace and support a fair and multi-polar international system.
