Lavrov department receives Moroccan ambassador, as Russia eyes role in Sahara conflict

Lavrov department receives Moroccan ambassador, as Russia eyes role in Sahara conflict
Sunday 17 March 2024 - 09:21

Russian Special Representative for the Middle East and Africa and Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov met with the Moroccan Ambassador to Moscow, Lotfi Bouchaara, on Friday.

The talks focused on “the development of traditionally friendly Russian-Moroccan relations, including maintaining an active political dialogue on the issues of resolving ongoing crises in the Middle East and North Africa based on key principles of international law and relevant UN Security Council resolutions,” the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

In March 11, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Western Sahara, Staffan de Mistura, in Moscow.

The two sides discussed “the state and prospects of the settlement process” for the Sahara conflict.

Russia is trying to revive the political process in the Sahara, which has been stalled since March 2019, ‘taking into account De Mistura’s recent contacts with all the parties involved” and “the crucial role of the UN peacekeeping mission (MINURSO) in maintaining stability,” the Russian foreign ministry said.

While this engagement may seem surprising considering Russia’s previous neutrality, its permanent seat on the Security Council grants it significant influence.

 Russia has maintained respect for Morocco, excluding the Polisario from Russia-Africa summits and reassuring Morocco about joint military exercises with Algeria.

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.

Economy
Brazil and OCP Nutricrops sign agreement targeting 3.8 million tons of fertilizer
Saturday 19 September 2026 - 12:00

Brazil and OCP Nutricrops sign agreement targeting 3.8 million tons of fertilizer

Politics
Inside the strange economy that keeps old-school campaigning alive
Friday 18 September 2026 - 23:00

Inside the strange economy that keeps old-school campaigning alive

News
Kenitra residents report breathing problems, foul odors after landfill fire
Friday 18 September 2026 - 20:30

Kenitra residents report breathing problems, foul odors after landfill fire

International
NGOs alert HRC to violations and restrictions on freedoms in Tindouf Camps, call for stronger protection mechanisms
Friday 18 September 2026 - 19:53

NGOs alert HRC to violations and restrictions on freedoms in Tindouf Camps, call for stronger protection mechanisms