Morocco Counters Algeria's Expropriation Accusations with Firm Response

Thursday 28 March 2024 - 11:48

In a recent diplomatic standoff, Algeria pointed fingers at Morocco, alleging the expropriation of Algerian properties in Rabat. However, Moroccan authorities swiftly rebutted the claims, presenting evidence that contradicted Algiers' assertions. The tension seemed to ease as Algeria's Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf declared the case officially closed following what he deemed an "appropriate decision" by Morocco in response.

Addressing the press, Attaf explained, "The matter was brought up by the Moroccans, and we responded accordingly. This prompted Morocco to take a decision that we view as fitting, effectively closing the issue." His statement indicates Algeria's acknowledgment of Morocco's stance on the alleged expropriation.

The dispute arose earlier this month when Algeria threatened retaliation, accusing Morocco of unlawfully seizing Algerian state-owned real estate, citing it as a flagrant violation of diplomatic premises protection laws. However, a Moroccan diplomatic source clarified that discussions with Algerian authorities had centered on the potential repurposing of only one unused building near the Foreign Ministry.

Significantly, Morocco produced correspondence from Algeria's Casablanca consulate, dated March 2022, wherein Algerian diplomats mentioned plans for the "sale" of properties housing the former embassy in Rabat. This documentary evidence appears to undermine Algeria's allegations of illicit expropriation.

This property dispute is the latest in a series of conflicts between the neighboring North African nations. Diplomatic relations had soured in 2021 when Algeria expelled the Moroccan ambassador, attributing wildfires to Morocco without substantiated evidence.

As the dust settles on this real estate saga, the question arises: Can the closure of the "expropriation" case pave the way for renewed efforts to mend the strained ties between Algiers and Rabat? For now, Morocco's decisive response appears to have doused this particular diplomatic flare-up.