Morocco: A Beacon of Stability in a Turbulent Region
The German publication ”International Politics And Society,” affiliated with the Friedrich Ebert Foundation, recently published a report highlighting Morocco’s growing influence in West Africa. The report, authored by Manuel Gatt, head of the foundation’s Morocco office, identifies Morocco as a haven of stability in the Arab world, despite its ongoing conflict with Algeria. It further emphasizes that “Rabat has become the most important morocco-imminent/” title=”Sound Energy: Morocco Poised for Natural Gas Production”>security partner in the crisis-ridden Sahel region.”
Several factors contribute to Morocco’s strategic positioning in West Africa. The report points to Morocco’s expanding religious influence, achieved through the training of African imams and the promotion of moderate Islam. Additionally, Morocco has established a strong presence through security, military, and economic diplomacy, forging numerous agreements with countries in the region.
The withdrawal of French forces from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, prompted by the rise of anti-Paris sentiments, created a security vacuum in the region. Morocco, with its experience in counterterrorism and its well-regarded military training academies, has stepped in to fill this void. This proactive approach has not only bolstered regional security but has also allowed Morocco to surpass the influence of former colonial powers in the Sahel.
The new military regimes in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger are actively seeking reliable regional partners. While much of the world has viewed these new governments with apprehension, Morocco has extended a welcoming hand. For instance, Morocco’s ambassador to Mali was the first diplomat to establish contact with the new Malian leadership, and Niger’s new prime minister chose Rabat for his first official visit abroad.
Furthermore, the economic and political sanctions imposed on Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have led to economic isolation for these nations. Morocco, recognizing an opportunity, has proposed the “Atlantic Initiative,” offering its infrastructure and resources to support the Sahel countries.
The “International Politics And Society” report underscores the significance of the Dakhla Atlantic Port in Morocco’s strategic vision. The port is envisioned as a new regional economic hub, serving as a gateway to West Africa and bolstering Morocco’s claims of sovereignty over the Sahara region.
While Morocco has never been a member of the G5 Sahel, a regional organization founded in 2014 by Mauritania, Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, and Chad, it has cultivated a “privileged partner” status through various security and military agreements. The report concludes that Morocco enjoys unparalleled access and communication with the new governments in the region and wields genuine influence through its security apparatus.
This strategic positioning not only benefits Morocco but also offers a path towards stability and development for the entire West African region. As other global powers retreat, Morocco’s proactive engagement and commitment to regional security make it a vital partner in navigating the complexities of the Sahel.
