Morocco Urges EU to Act on Partnership, Not Just Words

Tuesday 26 November 2024 - 12:10

In light of recent challenges to its partnership with the European Union (EU), Morocco has called for concrete actions rather than mere rhetoric to safeguard bilateral agreements. The call came after a contentious ruling by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) that has sparked tensions regarding the EU-Morocco Partnership, particularly in the sectors of fisheries and agriculture.

At a press conference in Rabat, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita urged the EU to clarify its stance and demonstrate how it plans to protect the strategic partnership. This call was echoed by European Commissioner for Neighborhood Policy, Oliver Varhelyi, during his final visit in his current role. Varhelyi underscored Morocco’s critical role as a partner for the EU, especially in terms of regional stability and security.

“Morocco has been recognized in Europe as a pillar of stability, a pillar of prosperity, and increasingly over these five years, we have seen Morocco also become a reliable, always available, and serious partner in the region's security,” Varhelyi remarked. He emphasized that the partnership is not just beneficial but essential for both sides.

However, this partnership has faced challenges from pro-Polisario forces, particularly with the ECJ's ruling, which accused the EU Commission of violating the “right to self-determination” of the population of Western Sahara. Morocco’s response to the verdict has been firm. Bourita made it clear that Morocco is waiting for the EU to address the ongoing provocations and economic pressures it faces as a result of this ruling. He called for “meaningful suggestions and solutions” that reflect the EU’s commitment to its relationship with Morocco.

In defense of the EU-Morocco partnership, several EU member states have rallied in support of the agreements, particularly those related to agriculture and fisheries. Spanish Minister of Agriculture Luis Planas remarked in October that no ruling would undermine the stability of Morocco’s relationship with Spain or the EU, stressing the importance of continued cooperation.

The EU has also shown determination to maintain its partnership with Morocco despite the legal challenges. In response to the court’s decision, Morocco's Foreign Affairs Ministry stated that it did not consider the ECJ’s ruling relevant to its agricultural or fisheries agreements with the EU, as Morocco was not a party to the case. The ministry criticized the ruling as flawed and politically biased, highlighting its disregard for the realities of the situation.

As the EU faces pressure from multiple fronts, Morocco remains steadfast, urging action over mere verbal support, while looking to secure a stable and productive future for its partnership with the European Union.