Nasser Bourita: Inauguration of Consulates in Southern Provinces Is a Clear and Explicit Expression of International Support of Moroccan Sahara

Today, March 4th, Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, said that the opening of consulates in the southern provinces of the Kingdom is a clear and explicit expression of the international position in support of the “Moroccanity” of Sahara.

This was during a press conference with his Jordanian counterpart, Ayman Safadi, following the inauguration of the Jordanian General Consulate in Laayoune.

Bourita opened his speech by wishing Jordan continued progress and prosperity, stressing that the opening of this consulate in Laayoune embodies cooperation between the two countries which maintained their relationship under very sensitive Arab and regional circumstances.

Bourita also pointed out that there is coordination with Jordan on challenges facing the region, and that Morocco is consulting politically on the Palestinian issue, adding that “King Abdullah II’s decision to open a consulate in Laayoune is a practical translation of Jordan’s positions in support of our country to protect its security and territorial integrity.”

For his part, the Jordanian Foreign Minister, Ayman Safadi, said: “I am honored to be in Laayoune to inaugurate our consulate following King Abdullah’s decision to open it,” noting that “the opening of the consulate today in Laayoune confirms our position that we stand with the territorial integrity of Morocco.”

He added, “There are many agreements that we have concluded with Morocco, and we hope that they will be signed at the earliest opportunity.”

On a finale note, Safadi stated that “our relationship is distinguished and historic, with uninterrupted coordination, and Morocco is cooperating with us in protecting the Arab-Islamic identity of Al-Quds”, explaining that “our first issue is the Palestinian issue; in order to achieve a peace that protects all the legitimate rights of the people there.”