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EU Reaffirms Commitment to Morocco Partnership Despite Legal Setback

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In a strategic move to maintain diplomatic ties, European Union leaders are poised to reaffirm their commitment to a "high value" partnership with Morocco at an upcoming summit. This stance comes in the wake of a recent European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling that invalidated EU-Morocco trade agreements on agriculture and fisheries.

The draft conclusions for the European Council, obtained by Europa Press, reveal the EU's intention to "preserve and continue strengthening close relations with Morocco in all areas of the partnership." This statement serves as a direct response to the ECJ's decision, which cited a lack of consent from the people of Sahara as the basis for declaring the trade agreements illegal.

While the draft text acknowledges the ECJ ruling, it also emphasizes that EU foreign policy adheres to established treaties. Regarding the contentious issue of Sahara, the document refers to United Nations resolutions, calling for a "just, realistic, pragmatic, sustainable and mutually acceptable" political solution.

Josep Borrell, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, recently underscored the importance of the "deep friendship" with Morocco, expressing the EU's desire to expand cooperation in the coming months. This sentiment echoes the joint statement issued by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Borrell immediately following the ECJ ruling, which described the EU-Morocco relationship as "long-standing, wide-ranging and deep."

The ECJ's decision has faced criticism from legal experts who question its legal basis and interpretation of international law. Critics argue that the court's emphasis on self-determination as synonymous with independence contradicts the United Nations Security Council's current approach, which focuses on finding a mutually acceptable political solution.

International affairs expert Mohamed Bouden described the ECJ ruling as "devoid of any legal contribution" and "politically charged," highlighting the complex nature of the situation.

As the EU navigates this delicate diplomatic landscape, the upcoming summit will be crucial in defining the future of EU-Morocco relations. The bloc's leaders appear determined to maintain strong ties with Rabat, balancing legal considerations with strategic partnerships in the region.