Rome, 6 July 2023 (TDI): Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita engaged in a conversation with Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani in Rome.
The two sides emphasized their firm commitment to fostering their bilateral relations by expanding the scope of their mutual collaboration.
Strengthening multidimensional cooperation between Rabat and Rome
Within the context of advancing cooperation, the two leaders inked the Action Plan for the implementation of the multidimensional strategic partnership between Morocco and Italy.
In the action plan, Italy lauded Morocco’s sincere and credible endeavours, as demonstrated in Security Council Resolution 2654 of October 2022, which extended the mandate of the United Nations Mission for conducting a referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) until October 31, 2023, realizing peace between the two conflicting parties.
Referring to the Moroccan autonomy initiative, Rome reaffirms its firm support for the concentrated efforts of the UN to pursue a political process, calling for a just, realistic, pragmatic, and mutually acceptable political solution to the Western Sahara question based on compromise in accordance with Resolution 2654.
Morocco and Italy also reaffirm their commitment to diversify their bilateral relations aimed at fostering continuous dialogue and cooperation, as mentioned in a joint declaration signed between the two countries in 2019 in the capital city of Rabat.
Moreover, the action plan places a special emphasis on expanding cooperation in political and diplomatic dialogue, security, justice, economics, energy, and sustainable development sectors between Rome and Rabat.
As part of their multi-dimensional partnership, the two sides also committed to working hand in hand in research, development, and intercultural and inter-religious dialogue cooperation.
Partnership in the international realm
In the field of global security, the two sides praised the role of Rome and Rabat in the fight against terrorism, irregular migration, and international crime. Both countries agreed that the peaceful settlement of regional disputes and conflicts would lead to peace, stability, and development.
Also read: Swiss Foreign Minister visits Morocco, strengthening ties
As strategic allies, they reached a consensus to intensify their joint efforts, strengthening political dialogue and working with the European Union. For the implementation of a multidimensional strategic partnership, they agreed to the formation of a partnership council and related committees.
Morroco’s foreign minister also held talks with the Chairman of the Italian Senate’s Committee on European Union Policy, Giulio, and the President of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, Lorenzo Fontana.
