Morocco and Russia have reaffirmed their shared commitment to resolving the Western Sahara issue in accordance with international law, stressing that legal principles should not be interpreted in ways that hinder progress.
Speaking at a press conference following talks with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov, Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, said the meeting provided an opportunity to address regional and international issues, with the Western Sahara dispute at the forefront.
“We are agreed that solutions must comply with international law and international principles, but we are also agreed that these principles cannot be exploited or interpreted in ways that block progress toward solutions,” Bourita said.
The minister noted that Russia currently holds the presidency of the UN Security Council for October, which will consider the issue, and highlighted the evolving international momentum surrounding the dispute. “It is time to take into account the dynamics this file is experiencing internationally, thanks to the impetus provided by King Mohammed VI and the changes in positions of a number of countries,” he said.
Bourita emphasized Russia’s central role in the process as a permanent Security Council member and a member of the Friends of Western Sahara group. “Morocco considers Russia an important actor on the international stage, given its influence in multiple international issues. The dialogue between us will have positive results; it is not a dialogue against anyone but a dialogue to strengthen regional peace and stability,” he added.
The minister concluded by underlining the shared responsibility of Russia and Morocco in both the Arab region and Africa, stressing that continued dialogue would help bridge differences and enhance stability across these regions.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov echoed these remarks, emphasizing that both countries “share the view that international principles should not be interpreted selectively, but applied and respected comprehensively and coherently.”
The discussions signal ongoing diplomatic coordination between Morocco and Russia on a matter that remains a central issue in North African and international geopolitics.
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