Rabat, 1 August 2022 (TDI): King Mohammed VI of Morocco has urged the reestablishment of diplomatic relations with Algeria. The diplomatic ties between the two nations were severed in August last year due to the Western Sahara conflict.
The king of Morocco made the comments during a speech commemorating his 23rd year on the throne. King Mohammed stated that he hopes to forge cordial ties with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune of Algeria and the two amiable people.
In addition, he stated that the boundaries separating the populations of Morocco and Algeria would never be an obstacle. It will not stop them from communicating with and understanding one another, as stated by the monarch.
He asked Moroccans to uphold the attitude of fraternity, solidarity, and good neighborliness towards the Algerian people. The two nations, according to the King, are more than just neighbors.
Morocco-Algeria dispute
Western Sahara is a region that is up for dispute between Morocco and Algeria. This is where the Polisario Front, which is backed by Algiers, is fighting for freedom from Rabat’s authority.
In August 2021, Algeria severed diplomatic ties with Morocco, claiming Rabat was guilty of “hostile acts.” Due to this, the Algerian-Moroccan border has been closed since 1994.
Rabat’s jurisdiction covers nearly 80% of the territory, and it is pressing for autonomy under its rule. However, the Polisario Front favors a UN-sponsored vote on self-determination.
In a 2020 agreement that also saw Rabat normalize relations with Israel, Washington supported Morocco’s control of the region.
Along with the Front, Algeria is a supporter of the Palestinian cause and has used this as an opportunity to criticize Morocco for increasing its military ties with Israel. It was referred to as the “Zionist entity” in Algeria.
King Mohammed’s statement
The Moroccan King mentioned the claims that Moroccans insulted Algeria and Algerians. In this regard, he stated that the accusations were the product of careless people attempting to cause dissension.
In addition, the king promised to amend the family law during his speech on Saturday. At a period when inflation was on the rise, this was in support of women’s rights, social protections, and price restrictions.
He also promised to step up vaccine efforts to combat COVID-19 as a result. He also expressed gratitude to the governmental authorities, security forces, and health sector for their “dedication and spirit of responsibility” during the pandemic.
