Iraq has renewed its unwavering support for Morocco’s territorial integrity while welcoming the growing international momentum behind the Autonomy Plan for the Western Sahara during high-level diplomatic talks held today in Rabat.
Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, who is on a five-day official visit to Morocco from 5-9 February, held a joint press conference with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita to convey his nation’s gratitude for Morocco’s territorial sovereignty.
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n particular, Hussein supported “the efforts expended by Morocco to reach a realistic political solution based on consensus, in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions.”
The discussions between the two diplomats centred heavily on regional issues, particularly the Palestinian situation.
Hussein expressed serious concerns about proposals for Palestinian displacement, stating that this plan is “very dangerous and reduces the Palestinian question to that of refugees,” while warning that “this creates new obstacles for Egypt and Jordan.”
Addressing recent developments in Gaza and the potential impact of displacement on the West Bank, which he compared to the events of 1948, he called for “Islamic and Arab coordination on this issue.”
Bourita reinforced Morocco’s position on the Palestine question, emphasising that “the decision always belongs to the Palestinians.”
Morocco “always supports, under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, the unity of the Palestinian people and territory, as well as the creation of the Palestinian state,” he explained.
During the talks, Hussein specifically praised King Mohammed VI’s continuous efforts as Chairman of the Al-Quds Committee in defending Jerusalem and preserving its civilisational identity as a symbol of religious tolerance and coexistence.
The Iraqi minister also commended the monarch’s support for Jerusalem residents through humanitarian and social projects implemented by the Bayt Mal Al-Quds Acharif Agency, the executive arm of the Al-Quds Committee.
Of Iraqi-Moroccan bilateral relations, Bourita highlighted the deep-rooted ties between the two nations. “This relationship has remained strong throughout its different phases,” he said. “Iraq was among the first countries, if not the first, to recognise Morocco’s independence, and strong human ties have always connected our nations.”
Hussein expressed keen interest in Morocco’s development model, noting that Iraq is “currently studying Morocco’s remarkable experience in achieving substantial economic growth, its progress in the tourism sector, its advancements in renewable energy, and its banking and financial reforms—particularly in fostering stronger ties with African countries.”
“While Iraq faces notable challenges, it also offers tremendous opportunities” for collaboration, he stressed.
Bourita underscored Iraq’s crucial regional role, stating: “The Arab world needs a stable and effective Iraq, as Iraq plays a crucial role in addressing Arab issues.”
He expressed optimism about the upcoming Arab Summit in Iraq, adding, “God willing, the upcoming Arab Summit, which we are set to hold in Iraq, will serve as a catalyst for this important regional role that Iraq and its diplomacy continue to play in matters concerning the Arab world.”
Hussein, who described Morocco as his “second home,” expressed his “heartfelt gratitude to the esteemed officials and colleagues” he met during this visit, his second official trip to the country.
The diplomatic engagement culminated in a joint communiqué that solidified both nations’ shared positions on regional issues and bilateral cooperation.
