Diplomatic relations between Morocco and South Africa have been marked by a complex history, with periods of cooperation and tension. What are the key factors that have shaped the relationship between these two African nations, examining the challenges and opportunities for diplomatic engagement?
Morocco and South Africa share a complex history that dates back to the anti-colonial struggle and the decolonization process in Africa. In the 1960s and 1970s, Morocco and South Africa were on opposite sides of the struggle for decolonization and independence in Africa. Morocco was one of the few African countries that maintained diplomatic relations with apartheid South Africa, while South Africa supported Morocco’s occupation of the Western Sahara.
However, in recent years, the relationship between Morocco and South Africa has evolved, with both countries showing a willingness to engage in diplomatic dialogue and cooperate on issues of mutual interest. In 2004, South Africa officially recognized the sovereignty of Morocco over the Western Sahara, marking a significant shift in its foreign policy towards North Africa. Since then, Morocco and South Africa have engaged in several diplomatic initiatives, including high-level visits and trade agreements.
Despite this progress, the relationship between Morocco and South Africa remains complex and fraught with challenges. One of the key issues is the ongoing conflict over Western Sahara, a former Spanish colony that Morocco claims as part of its territory. South Africa, along with other African countries, has recognized the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) as the legitimate representative of the people of Western Sahara and has supported its right to self-determination.
Another challenge is the perception that Morocco and South Africa are competing for influence in Africa. Both countries are key players in the continent’s political and economic landscape and have been vying for influence in regional organizations such as the African Union. While Morocco has been seeking to regain its membership in the African Union after a 33-year absence, South Africa has been a vocal opponent of Morocco’s attempts to rejoin the organization without addressing the issue of Western Sahara.
Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for Morocco and South Africa to deepen their diplomatic engagement and cooperation. Both countries share a common interest in promoting peace and stability in the region and have the potential to work together on issues such as counter-terrorism, trade, and investment. Morocco has also expressed its willingness to cooperate with South Africa on issues of climate change and renewable energy, given that both countries have ambitious plans to transition to a low-carbon economy.
Diplomatic relations between Morocco and South Africa have been marked by a complex history, but there are opportunities for both countries to deepen their cooperation and engagement. The ongoing conflict over Western Sahara remains a major challenge and will require sustained diplomatic efforts to resolve. However, both Morocco and South Africa have demonstrated a willingness to engage in dialogue and find common ground on issues of mutual interest. As key players in the African continent, Morocco and South Africa have the potential to set an example of constructive and cooperative diplomacy for other countries in the region.