On the eve of Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita’s visit to Moscow, Russia has praised the strength and depth of its relationship with Morocco. In a statement released Wednesday, the Russian Foreign Ministry described the North African kingdom as a “key partner” on the continent and highlighted the “solid foundations” of their bilateral ties.
Bourita is scheduled to meet Thursday with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, for talks that Moscow characterizes as part of a “traditionally friendly dialogue.” The meeting will focus on expanding economic cooperation and exploring untapped commercial opportunities, areas both sides consider particularly promising.
During his visit, Bourita will also co-chair the eighth session of the Russian-Moroccan Joint Intergovernmental Commission with Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev. This institutional body serves as a cornerstone of the partnership between the two nations, fostering collaboration in economic, scientific, and technical fields.
Moscow’s statement also underscored the close rapport between the two heads of state. King Mohammed VI has visited Russia twice, in 2002 and 2016, each time resulting in major agreements: the first established a strategic partnership, while the second deepened it into a comprehensive framework for long-term cooperation. Russian President Vladimir Putin made an official visit to Rabat in 2006, further solidifying high-level ties.
Diplomatic relations between the two countries have also been maintained through frequent ministerial meetings, often held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. Morocco’s participation in the Russia-Africa summits in 2019 and 2023 reflects the continuity and consistency of this bilateral engagement.
Thursday’s talks between Bourita and Lavrov are also expected to address several regional and international issues, including ongoing crises in the Middle East, North Africa, and the Sahel. Russia reiterated its commitment to resolving conflicts exclusively through political and diplomatic means.
The Russian Foreign Ministry expressed hope that Bourita’s visit will serve as a new boost to the multifaceted partnership between Moscow and Rabat, while further strengthening coordination on peace and regional stability initiatives.
