Following the Council of Foreign Ministers of the European Union countries, held on 14th October 2024, in Luxembourg, EU High Representative Josep Borrellmade a strong statement on behalf of the 27 member states, expressing their support for and attachment to the “strategic partnership” with Morocco, to which the EU attaches “immense value”.
Despite the protests and agitation of Algeria, as well as the summoning of 12 European ambassadors in Algeria, to express Algeria’s disappointment with the statements of European political leaders regarding the rulings of the CJEU, the EU Commission maintains its position: “In close cooperation with Morocco, the European Union firmly intends to continue strengthening our close relations and our partnership in all areas” said Borrell.
In his statement, Borrell stressed that the strategic partnership with Morocco is “long-lasting and far-reaching”, recalling that it has been in existence for over 55 years since its creation in 1969.
Borrell’s statements also addressed the recent rulings of the Court of Justice of the EU on fisheries and agricultural agreements between the EU and Morocco. He reaffirmed, together with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the EU’s commitment to strengthening these ties in all areas, in line with the principle of respect for commitments made, “pacta suntservanda”.
Through Borrell, the 27 also expressed their commitment to “strengthening” and “preserving” the partnership in all fields. In his statement, Borrell promised that the Partnership would see positive developments in the coming months.
This collective position comes in a delicate context, shortly after Algeria summoned the ambassadors of the twelve countries that had expressed their support for Morocco following the Court’s decisions. This gesture by Algeria could be interpreted as an attempt to thwart European support for its Moroccan neighbor. In response, the unanimous statement of the foreign ministers constitutes a firm reaction from the EU, solidifying the lasting bond with Morocco in the face of Algeria’s attempts at pressure.
Through these declarations by all the member states, the EU is sending a clear political message that any interference in EU internal matters will be effectively countered by a strong and cohesive response from all Member States.
