Tunisia takes steps to mend relations with Morocco after fallout over Moroccan Sahara

Tunisia is taking steps to mend its rocky relationship with Morocco, which has been strained since 2022. 

A source close to Tunisia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs told Hespress Ar that Tunisian authorities are working to restore diplomatic ties and reinstate the ambassadors of both countries after a fallout caused by a controversial meeting.

The tension started when Tunisian President Kais Saied hosted the leader of the separatist Polisario Front during the Japan-Africa summit held in Tunisia. 

This act angered Morocco, leading to both nations withdrawing their ambassadors. Rabat viewed Tunisia’s move as a major breach of diplomatic neutrality, especially regarding the sensitive issue of the Moroccan Sahara.

According to the Tunisian source, the foreign ministry is eager to move past these disagreements. 

“Tunisia is determined to establish balanced and equal relations with all Maghreb capitals and end the diplomatic stagnation with Morocco,” the source said. 

They also mentioned recent initiatives aimed at reconciliation, though these efforts have reportedly faced challenges that remain undisclosed.

Critics in Tunisia, including politicians and human rights activists, have pointed fingers at President Saied for the diplomatic strain. They blame his administration for abandoning Tunisia’s traditionally neutral stance on Moroccan Sahara and for actions that seemed to align with Algeria’s position on the issue. 

Many have urged the Tunisian presidency to prioritize mutual interests and rebuild bridges with Morocco. 

The diplomatic rift escalated when Morocco’s foreign ministry labeled Tunisia’s reception of the Polisario leader as “an unprecedented and dangerous act” that hurt the Moroccan people’s sentiments and national interests. 

In response, Tunisia’s foreign ministry defended its actions, claiming the leader’s presence was part of an African Union decision.

Despite recent reconciliation efforts, doubts linger about Tunisia’s sincerity. The country’s involvement in a proposed Algeria-led Maghreb initiative and President Saied’s remarks supporting “self-determination” have fueled skepticism.

Morocco’s stance remains firm. In a speech, King Mohammed VI emphasized that Western Sahara is central to Morocco’s foreign policy, describing it as “the lens through which we view the world” and urging clarity from international partners.