Moroccan FM meets with Burundi counterpart, reaffirming autonomy plan on Sahara

Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita held a bilateral meeting with his Burundi counterpart Albert Shingiro during an official visit to Morocco, from October 16 to 21, 2022, according to the joint press release issued on Wednesday.

During their talks, the two Ministers emphasized relations between the two countries and reaffirmed their full commitment to further cooperate in different fields of common interest, including agriculture, transport, and energy efficiency.

The two Ministers stressed the important role that the Moroccan and Burundian private sectors play in both countries, said the same source.

In this regard, they called on economic operators and investors of the two countries to seize the opportunities offered in the different economic sectors, added the press release.

Both officials also proceeded to the signature of two agreements, the first one on the creation of the Joint Cooperation Commission, and the Agreement on the abolition of visas for holders of diplomatic service and special passports.

The two parties also committed to support each other on key issues affecting fundamental interests. In this context, Albert Shingiro reaffirmed the commitment of the Republic of Burundi to Morocco’s territorial integrity and sovereignty over Western Sahara plan.

The Republic of Burundi considers the Autonomy plan in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, as the basis for a lasting, and realistic solution based on compromise, added the press release.

Shingiro also reaffirmed the support of the Republic of Burundi to the efforts of the UN Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy for the relaunch of the political process on the basis of the UN Security Council Resolutions, further stated the same source.

Shingiro expressed to Nasser Bourita gratitude for the warm welcome and African hospitality during the stay in Morocco, concluded the joint press release.