Date: August 20, 2023
In recent weeks, international media outlets have been discussing the possibility of Morocco’s hypothetical candidacy for membership in the BRICS group, as well as its involvement in the upcoming meeting scheduled for August 24, 2023, in Johannesburg, within the framework of BRICS/Africa. However, Morocco has decided to exercise its right to abstain from participating in the “BRICS-Africa outreach” event, set to take place on August 24, 2023, in Sandton, a suburb of Johannesburg. This decision is rooted in a series of substantial concerns that underscore the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its interests and sovereignty.
The primary reasons for Morocco’s non-participation are as follows:
- South Africa’s Diversionary Tactics: The mobilization by South Africa to extend an invitation to the Polisario to the “BRICS-Africa outreach” event has raised suspicions about the true intentions behind the event. It appears that Pretoria aims to manipulate the nature and objectives of the event to serve an agenda detrimental to Morocco’s interests.
- Reaction to Setbacks: South Africa’s invitation to the self-proclaimed Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), commonly referred to as Polisario, can be seen as a hostile reaction to its failure in garnering African support for the separatist movement. This move is also a response to the “Tangier Appeal,” a document signed by several African countries demanding the expulsion of Polisario from the African Union.
- BRICS Members’ Position: Four out of the five BRICS member nations—Brazil, Russia, China, and India—have unequivocally expressed their non-recognition of Polisario, further complicating the issue and highlighting the rift within the group regarding this matter.
- Diplomatic Concerns: South Africa’s unpredictable and non-compliant diplomatic practices have raised concerns about its ability to effectively organize such events. Various irregularities in protocol and organization, coupled with reluctance expressed by several nations, cast doubt on the integrity of the “BRICS-Africa outreach” event.
- Regional Dynamics: The absence of Eswatini from the event due to a failure by South African authorities to extend an invitation highlights the complexities of regional relationships. This omission could potentially sour relations with China, a crucial partner in the BRICS alliance.
In light of these concerns, Morocco has taken the principled stance that it cannot participate in an event organized by a nation with a stated intention to undermine its territorial integrity. The kingdom remains committed to cooperating with fellow BRICS member nations to achieve the group’s strategic goals, namely enhancing economic collaboration and promoting development across various domains of mutual interest.
In conclusion, Morocco’s decision not to partake in the “BRICS-Africa outreach” event is rooted in a desire to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The concerns raised by the actions and intentions of other participating nations have led Morocco to prioritize its own interests over participation in an event that might compromise its principles. As the nation maintains its commitment to the broader goals of the BRICS alliance, it emphasizes the importance of respecting the sovereignty and rights of all member nations.