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Russia is striving to navigate a delicate diplomatic balance between Morocco and Algeria. In the wake of an interview with its envoy in an Algerian media outlet, the Russian news agency RIA Novosti has turned the spotlight on Ambassador Vladimir Baibakov in Rabat. The ambassador underscored a pivotal facet of Moroccan-Russian relations: economic exchanges.
Ambassador Baibakov expressed his satisfaction, stating that «Russia and Morocco sustain robust trade and economic ties, with a turnover estimated at two billion dollars, and we are continuously seeking new avenues for cooperation». This vibrant relationship endures «despite the pressure of sanctions» imposed by the European Union, the United States, and Canada in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine on February 22, 2022.
The ambassador criticized «Western countries for leveraging sanctions to oust Russia from the Moroccan market, yet the bilateral relations remain stable, with both parties actively engaging». He admitted that «sanctions undeniably pose challenges, particularly in financial transactions».
«By urging Moroccans not to purchase Russian coal, the United States is substituting it with their own, which, contrary to Western green economy standards, generates more smoke and pollutes the Kingdom's atmosphere more than the higher quality Russian fossil fuels.»
Despite these tensions, the diplomat «highlighted that Moroccan citrus fruits, notably mandarins, have long been cherished in Russia. The supply continues to expand, and Russian consumers still appreciate the quality of Moroccan products».
Morocco's primary exports to Russia continue to be fruits, seafood, and fish. Additionally, Morocco is keen on Russian technologies and investments, especially in the energy, infrastructure, and agriculture sectors. In return, Russia supplies agricultural products, fertilizers, animal feed, pharmaceuticals, electrical equipment, information technology, and other goods, he emphasized.
On October 17, Rabat and Moscow inked a new fishing agreement, encompassing the waters of Western Sahara.
Vladimir Baibakov also encouraged Russian tourists to visit Morocco, describing it as a «safe country». When questioned about the GenZ 212 movement protests, the ambassador remarked that «unlike other countries, these protests in Morocco have not gained significant momentum, and all disputes are resolved through dialogue».
In October 2025, the Russian embassy in Rabat had advised Russian tourists in Morocco «to avoid crowds» during this period of protests.
