Morocco-Djibouti’s Strong, Deep-Rooted Relations Set to Grow Further in Years Ahead – Says Morocco’s FM

Strong, deep-rooted relations between Morocco and Djibouti are set to develop further in the years ahead, said Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates Nasser Bourita in Rabat on Tuesday. Bourita’s statement was made at a press briefing following talks with Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, bearer of a written message from the President of the Republic of Djibouti, Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, to His Majesty King Mohammed VI. Relations between the two countries are rooted in sincere brotherhood, permanent solidarity and fruitful cooperation, he explained, adding that these ties hold an important human dimension, with the bonds between the two peoples serving as “one of the strengths of our bilateral relations”. His Majesty the King reaffirms His pride in the ties uniting the two countries, as well as His personal relationship with H.E President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, he said, stressing that the Kingdom takes pride in Djibouti’s achievements under President Guellah’s leadership in economic and social development and political stability, besides its fundamental role as a hub of stability in East Africa, and as a key player for peace and security in the Horn of Africa, in a challenging regional context. Bourita believes that Djibouti has always been a source of trust and credibility, able to play a leading role in promoting stability and security in the region, hence the constant concern of both countries to work together on all regional issues, especially as bilateral relations have always been based on “effective solidarity and mutual support,” he pointed out.   In his view, the opening of a Moroccan mission in Djibouti and the Djibouti embassy in Morocco represent two essential mechanisms for promoting cooperation and monitoring all cooperation projects between the two countries.  Morocco “never forgets Djibouti’s constant stance in favor of its important causes”, just as Morocco has always been on Djibouti’s side, Bourita asserted.