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Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita is set to visit Moscow this Thursday for a meeting with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov. As per a statement issued on Wednesday, October 15th, by the Russian Foreign Ministry, the agenda includes exploring new avenues for enhancing the «traditionally friendly» relations between Russia and Morocco.
The talks will also address «key international and regional issues, with a particular emphasis on peaceful conflict resolution in the Middle East, North Africa, and the Sahara-Sahel region, in line with the United Nations Charter and Security Council resolutions».
Russia regards Morocco as a significant partner in Africa, highlighting that the two nations often share similar or convergent positions within the UN and other international forums, the statement added.
«Mr. Bourita's visit aims to deepen the multifaceted partnership between the two countries and bolster their collaborative efforts towards regional peace and stability».
This visit occurs amid a sensitive diplomatic climate surrounding the Western Sahara issue. Rabat has been striving to persuade Moscow not to veto a potential UN Security Council resolution supporting Morocco's autonomy plan.
On September 9th, Bourita and Lavrov held a phone conversation, followed by a meeting on September 24th in New York during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
On October 13th, the Russian Foreign Minister reiterated Moscow's stance, declaring that «Russia is prepared to support a resolution to the Western Sahara conflict that satisfies all parties. For us, the issue will be resolved when all involved genuinely believe that a balanced solution has been achieved».
Since 2018, Russia has abstained from voting on Security Council resolutions concerning the Sahara issue.
In Moscow, Bourita and Lavrov are also expected to discuss preparations for the 8th meeting of the Moroccan-Russian Joint Commission.
