Israel and Morocco Elevate Diplomatic Relations through Trilateral Meeting
In a significant diplomatic development, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar made a surprise visit to New York on Wednesday for a trilateral meeting with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz. This meeting marked a pivotal moment in Israel-Morocco relations, as both nations agreed on a series of measures aimed at strengthening their diplomatic and economic ties. The discussions led to a mutual understanding to upgrade their existing liaison offices to full-fledged embassies and appoint ambassadors, a move that is expected to further solidify their formal diplomatic relations.
In addition to the establishment of embassies, the two countries reached an agreement to enhance direct flight services, finalize economic agreements, and facilitate reciprocal visits by senior officials. These steps are designed to foster closer collaboration and interaction between Israel and Morocco, building on the foundations laid by the normalization of relations initiated in 2020.
Commitments to Economic Cooperation and Mutual Investment
During the trilateral summit, the representatives from Israel, Morocco, and the United States reiterated their commitment to a range of initiatives aimed at deepening ties. According to Sa’ar’s office, both nations have pledged to finalize agreements on investment protection and the prevention of double taxation by the end of 2026. These agreements are expected to facilitate mutual investments and boost economic and business interactions between the two countries and their peoples.
Moreover, the nations agreed to expand direct air service between Israel and Morocco, with Moroccan airlines expected to commence flights shortly. Sa’ar emphasized the importance of these new routes, which are anticipated to enhance tourism and cultural exchanges, thereby enriching the relationship further. The planned reciprocal high-level visits in the upcoming months are also seen as a crucial step in strengthening bilateral relations.
This trilateral meeting followed a gathering hosted by Waltz at his New York residence, commemorating the sixth anniversary of the Abraham Accords—the landmark agreements that facilitated the normalization of relations between Israel and multiple Arab nations. The event underscored the ongoing commitment of the United States to support these diplomatic efforts and included representatives from several countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Kazakhstan.
Reflecting on the historical bonds between the Moroccan and Jewish communities, Sa’ar stated, "The friendship between the Moroccan people and the Jewish people has deep roots and a glorious history." He added that the declaration signed during this meeting would outline practical steps to enhance ties between Israel and Morocco, ultimately benefiting both nations. Although Morocco resumed diplomatic relations with Israel in 2020 through a U.S.-brokered agreement, it has emphasized that this action was a restoration of prior relations rather than an official accession to the Abraham Accords. The joint declaration of 2020 laid the groundwork for full diplomatic relations, direct flights, and increased economic cooperation.
Currently, Israel operates a liaison office in Rabat rather than a full embassy, as reported by Sa’ar’s office.
As reported by ynetnews.com.
