Israel and Morocco to Send Ambassadors Following Diplomatic Normalization
In a significant step towards strengthening diplomatic relations, Israel and Morocco have announced their intention to appoint ambassadors to each other's capitals for the first time since the resumption of their diplomatic ties. This development comes as part of a broader initiative to upgrade their existing liaison offices to fully-fledged embassies. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar made this announcement after a trilateral meeting with U.S. officials in New York, highlighting the importance of this relationship. Morocco was among four Arab nations that took steps to normalize relations with Israel in 2020, as part of the Abraham Accords brokered by the United States.
The establishment of regular embassies was outlined as a goal for normalization back in 2020, and the agreement reached in New York marks a commitment to realizing this objective. Furthermore, a joint statement released by the U.S. Mission to the United Nations indicates plans to resume direct flights between Morocco and Israel, including services operated by both Israeli and Moroccan airlines, before the end of the year. Both nations are also aiming to finalize agreements on investment protection and the avoidance of double taxation by the year's end.
Potential for Growth in Israel-Morocco Relations
Foreign Minister Saar emphasized the significance of the relationship between Israel and Morocco, expressing optimism about its potential benefits for both nations. He thanked the U.S. for its pivotal role in strengthening these ties during the meeting with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz. The normalization efforts undertaken by Morocco, alongside the UAE, Bahrain, and Sudan, represent a paradigm shift away from the belief that normalization could only occur after resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In exchange for Morocco's recognition of Israel, the U.S. and Israel acknowledged Morocco's claims over Western Sahara, a territory with disputed international status. This acknowledgment further solidifies Morocco's diplomatic standing.
As reported by boersennews.de.