As the BRICS New Development Bank signals interest in Morocco’s potential accession, local experts are voicing serious concerns about the timing and geopolitical implications of such a move.
In a recent interview with Asharq Bloomberg, Kumar Srivastava, chief operating officer at the BRICS bank, acknowledged the group’s openness to Morocco’s future membership. However, experts interviewed by Hespress AR say “the time has not come yet” for the Kingdom to join the bloc.
Their reservations stem from the current instability within BRICS and longstanding disputes among its members—particularly India’s ongoing tensions with Pakistan—and, more crucially, the lack of members’ unified support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara.
Economic analyst Rachid Sari warned that membership could jeopardize Morocco’s diplomatic gains, particularly on the Sahara issue. “Even some countries already invited, like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the UAE, have yet to commit. Morocco’s political challenges, especially tense relations with Iran and South Africa’s support for the so-called ‘Sahrawi Republic,’ make political alignment within BRICS very unlikely,” he said.
Sari stressed that Morocco’s entry should only be considered if all BRICS members explicitly recognize its sovereignty over the Sahara. “We can’t even talk about accession before resolving those political obstacles,” he added. He also cited the need to ease ongoing political and military tensions with some BRICS nations to lay the groundwork for any future partnership.
Economist Yassine Alia pointed out that Morocco has never formally applied to join the bloc. He emphasized that BRICS includes major global powers like China, a key rival of the United States—Morocco’s long-standing strategic partner.
He recalled a 2018 episode when the Trump administration imposed tariffs on Moroccan exports. Instead of retaliating, Rabat chose to maintain strong U.S. ties, showcasing the value it places on that relationship. “Even if BRICS extends an invitation,” Alia said, “accepting it now could amount to economic and diplomatic suicide.”
Experts agree that Morocco must weigh its current alliances and geopolitical stability before considering BRICS membership, especially while political divisions within the group remain unresolved.
add your comment
Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.