Africa’s Voice on Global Stage Must Be Respected, Says Morocco at Russia-Africa Forum

Moroccan Foreign Minister Calls for Mutual Respect, Economic Cooperation, and Focus on African Sovereignty in Global Affairs.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates, Mr. Nasser Bourita, emphasized on Sunday the necessity for Africa's voice to be heard and valued in international arenas. Speaking at the First Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum, held in Sochi, Bourita urged African nations and their global partners to uphold core principles that respect Africa’s sovereignty and economic autonomy.

Bourita addressed his African and Russian counterparts, stating, “For Africa's voice to influence world affairs, we must remember certain fundamental principles.” These include the sovereignty and territorial integrity of African states, which, according to Bourita, are crucial to the continent’s pursuit of peace and shared prosperity.

Bourita highlighted that Africa's relationships with international partners must avoid outdated practices of paternalism. He urged external powers to recognize Africa’s ability to address its challenges, emphasizing that "Africa has the capacity to manage its own issues." The Minister expressed that for sustainable peace on the continent, African countries must respect each other's sovereignty and work cooperatively as equal partners, instead of allowing certain nations to assume leadership roles based on narrow, self-serving agendas.

Further, Bourita asserted that “it is not Africa that needs the rest of the world; rather, the world increasingly needs Africa.” This statement highlighted the continent’s significance on the global stage, stemming from its rich cultural heritage and substantial economic and demographic growth potential. With a youthful population, valuable natural resources, and expanding markets, Africa holds considerable leverage in partnerships with other regions, including Russia.

Speaking on the future of the Russia-Africa partnership, Bourita pointed to areas of mutual benefit, including food and energy security, which he suggested could form the foundation of strengthened ties. The Minister underscored Morocco’s role as a facilitator in fostering this relationship, given its identity as an African nation and its strategic ties with Russia. He affirmed that Morocco is committed to turning Africa’s partnership goals with Russia into “concrete actions, ambitious initiatives, and large-scale projects.”

The Russia-Africa Summit, set to take place in the near future, will build on these conversations, aiming to solidify collaborative efforts in areas critical to African development and stability. Bourita reiterated Morocco’s consistent stance in supporting cooperative projects focused on essential sectors such as human development, food, energy, and climate security. These areas, he argued, are fundamental for both Africa’s progress and the stability of its alliances.

In his closing remarks, Bourita called for a partnership model that prioritizes Africa's goals, respects its unique voice, and aligns with the continent's intrinsic values. As the cradle of humanity, Africa's contributions to the world are significant, and this, he asserted, warrants respect and recognition on the global stage.

 

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