Mohammed VI: The Wisdom of a King and Diplomatic Acumen Positioning Morocco at the Heart of Global Transformations

The French newspaper L’Express recently published an analysis titled “Mohammed VI: The Courage of a Measured Diplomacy,” highlighting Morocco’s foreign policy under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, characterized by realism and moderation in a turbulent world.

Mohammed VI’s Diplomacy: Realistic Balance in a Changing World

The newspaper emphasizes that since ascending the throne in 1999, Morocco, under King Mohammed VI, has adopted a deliberate diplomatic approach that balances national constants with strategic international interests. This approach surpasses emotional rhetoric to establish a realistic diplomatic school that comprehends contemporary geopolitical shifts.

Africa First: A Strong Return and Responsible Development Leadership

Morocco’s re-entry into the African Union in 2017 marked a turning point—not merely a symbolic gesture, but the start of a qualitative presence in the African continent. Under the direct supervision of the King, the Kingdom launched development projects in agriculture, health, training, and renewable energy, positioning Morocco as a trusted partner rather than a traditional player.

The Moroccan Sahara: Diplomacy of Recognition and Sustainable Sovereignty

The Moroccan Sahara remains a central pillar of Morocco’s foreign policy. The royal diplomacy has skillfully managed this file away from media noise, achieving unprecedented diplomatic gains, most notably the United States’ recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over its Saharan provinces in 2020. This was followed by supportive stances from European, Asian, and African countries, alongside the opening of consulates in Laayoune and Dakhla, reinforcing the growing international recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty.

Balancing West and East: Open Diplomacy Without Alignment

The newspaper notes Morocco’s commitment to maintaining strong relations with traditional partners such as France, Spain, and the United States, while simultaneously enhancing partnerships with China, Russia, Turkey, and Gulf countries. This diversified diplomacy reflects a comprehensive vision aimed at expanding national interests and avoiding alignment in conflicting blocs. For instance, amid the Ukraine crisis, Morocco adopted a cautious and balanced position, calling for respect of territorial integrity without engaging in hostile or partisan stances.

Jerusalem and Palestine: Continuous Defense of Legitimate Rights

Despite resuming relations with Israel in 2020, Morocco remains steadfast in its support for the Palestinian cause, as evidenced by the King’s ongoing presidency of the Jerusalem Committee and the Kingdom’s support for the holy city through the Bayt Mal Al-Quds Agency. This dual approach, combining political realism with principled support, reflects a unique diplomatic maturity.

Spiritual Diplomacy: Moderate Islamic Influence

The spiritual dimension holds a central place in Morocco’s foreign policy, with King Mohammed VI serving as Amir al-Mu’minin (Commander of the Faithful), a religious reference in the Islamic world, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. The Mohammed VI Institute for the Training of Imams, Morchidines, and Morchidates exemplifies Morocco’s export of a moderate Islam that opposes extremism and promotes values of moderation.

Economy and Diplomacy: An Interconnected Vision for a Promising Future

The Kingdom leverages its diplomacy to serve the national economy by promoting investment opportunities, signing numerous trade agreements, establishing free zones, and facilitating maritime and air connectivity. The Morocco-Nigeria gas pipeline project exemplifies the integration of diplomatic and economic visions.

Strategic Stances in Critical Contexts

Morocco has not hesitated to take decisive actions when national interests demanded it. During the 2021 crisis with Germany, the ambassador was recalled; in the espionage crisis with France, some cooperation forms were frozen. However, these measures did not lead to a final rupture but rather to a reassessment of relations based on mutual respect.

Outcome: An Independent Moroccan Diplomatic School

L’Express concludes that Morocco, under Mohammed VI, has succeeded in establishing an institutional, flexible, pragmatic, and ethical diplomacy that prioritizes the interests of Moroccan citizens above all. The Kingdom now has a respected diplomatic actor that makes confident decisions, responds wisely to crises, and envisions the future with insight.

This article offers a comprehensive view of modern Moroccan diplomacy, which combines wisdom and skill, national belonging and global engagement, making Morocco a pivotal player on the international stage.

For more details, you can read the original article in L’Express at:
https://lexpress.fr/monde/mohammed-vi-ou-le-courage-dune-diplomatie-moderee-par-frederic-encel-ZIKYBKUG7NAONGOBW5AJ5X2T34/

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