Morocco and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations reaffirmed their commitment to a strategic partnership, emphasizing solidarity in the face of regional security challenges, during a joint ministerial meeting held Thursday, March 12, 2026. The renewed pledge of cooperation comes as the region navigates complex geopolitical tensions and seeks to bolster economic resilience.
Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita highlighted recent phone calls between King Mohammed VI and leaders of GCC countries as “the highest expression of this fraternal, firm and constant solidarity.” He also reiterated Morocco’s full support for GCC nations confronting what he described as “the odious, reprehensible, and unjustified Iranian aggression” they have faced, and pledged backing for any measures taken to defend their sovereignty and security.
These statements echo remarks made by King Mohammed VI during a Morocco-Gulf summit on April 20, 2016, where he emphasized the strong bonds between the nations, rooted in shared values and principles. “Despite the geographical distances separating our countries, we remain united, by the grace of God, by solid ties that are not based solely on language, religion, or civilization, but also on a common attachment to the same values and principles and the same constructive orientations,” the King said at the time.
Bourita affirmed that the challenges facing the region necessitate elevating the strategic partnership to a higher level of complementarity. He stressed that national security now encompasses economic and social resilience in the face of crises, as well as ensuring the basic needs of citizens. The development underscores the growing recognition that security is multifaceted and requires a holistic approach.
Morocco, according to Bourita, is determined to advance its strategic partnership with GCC states and broaden its scope, guided by the principles of shared values and adapting to evolving global dynamics. He noted that the foundations of the partnership rest on solidarity, mutual assistance, and converging positions on regional and international issues.
Officials called for closer coordination in preparation for the post-crisis world, both politically and economically, to ensure active participation in shaping new global realities. Bourita emphasized the necessitate to translate the outcomes of the 2016 Morocco-Gulf summit into concrete programs across various sectors, acknowledging the significant development occurring in both Morocco and GCC states through ambitious economic and technological models.
The extension of the joint action plan to cover the period 2025-2030 and the adopted orientations for strengthening cooperation over the next two years were welcomed. Bourita also stressed the importance of greater integration of the private economic sectors, promoting contact between businesses, and actively involving sovereign wealth funds, particularly in investment and business mobility.
Morocco also reaffirmed its consistent support for the territorial integrity of GCC nations. In a separate matter, Bourita stated that a just resolution to the Palestinian issue is crucial for security and peace in the region. He highlighted King Mohammed VI’s ongoing efforts, as President of the Al-Quds Committee, to foster regional and international collaboration towards a fair and lasting solution based on the two-state solution, enabling the Palestinian people to exercise their legitimate rights, including the right to establish an independent state within the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
READ ALSO
