In a notable diplomatic move, Mexico’s Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), one of the country’s oldest political parties, expressed its “solidarity with the legitimate struggle” of Morocco in defending its sovereignty over the Sahara. This statement came during an official visit by the President of Morocco’s House of Representatives, Rachid Talbi El Alami, to Mexico, raising questions about the dimensions of this shift in the party’s stance, which previously supported the “Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic.”
"تضامن الحزب الثوري المؤسساتي المكسيكي مع المغرب: تحول دبلوماسي أم استراتيجية جديدة في عالم متعدد الأقطاب؟" pic.twitter.com/5qttPqQOZ9
— Diplomatique.ma الدبلوماسية (@diplomatique_ma) February 27, 2025
Does this solidarity reflect a change in Mexico’s foreign policy, or is it part of a broader strategy in a rapidly shifting geopolitical world?
1. Historical Background: From Supporting Polisario to Solidarity with Morocco
Mexico, through its former ruling party (PRI), has long supported the Polisario movement, recognizing the “Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic” in 1979. However, the party’s recent statement reflects a radical shift in its position, raising questions about the underlying reasons for this change. Does this shift reflect an evolution in the party’s political vision, or is it a response to broader global transformations, such as the rise of a multipolar world and Morocco’s growing importance as a strategic partner in Africa and the Arab world?
2. Dimensions of the Statement: A Reading in the International Context
The statement by the party’s president, Alejandro Moreno, emphasizes the “need to respect the principles of non-interference and peaceful conflict resolution,” which can be interpreted as support for a political solution to the Moroccan Sahara conflict under the auspices of the United Nations. But does this statement also reflect Mexico’s desire to strengthen its relations with Morocco as a strategic partner in Africa? What are the economic and political dimensions that Mexico could benefit from by enhancing its ties with Morocco?
3. Parliamentary Visit: Strengthening Bilateral Relations
The visit of the President of Morocco’s House of Representatives, Rachid Talbi El Alami, to Mexico, which included meetings with PRI leaders, aims to strengthen parliamentary relations between the two countries. Mexican Deputy Marcela Guerra highlighted the importance of the partnership between Morocco and Mexico, pointing to the significant potential for cooperation in trade, investment, and culture. But what concrete steps can both countries take to achieve these goals? Could bilateral relations between Morocco and Mexico see a qualitative shift in the coming years?
4. Geopolitical Context: Morocco and Mexico as Regional Gateways
Morocco is considered a gateway to Africa, while Mexico is a gateway to the Americas. This strategic position offers both countries significant opportunities to contribute to international stability and development. But how can both countries enhance this role in the face of current geopolitical challenges, such as regional conflicts and climate change? Could the partnership between Morocco and Mexico become a model for cooperation between Africa and Latin America?
5. Questions Raised: Toward a Deeper Understanding of the Diplomatic Shift
- What are the real reasons behind the PRI’s shift from supporting Polisario to solidarity with Morocco?
- How could this move influence bilateral relations between Morocco and Mexico in economic and political spheres?
- What challenges might both countries face in strengthening their relations in the current geopolitical context?
- Could other Latin American countries undergo a similar shift in their positions on the Moroccan Sahara issue?
Conclusion:
The PRI’s statement of solidarity with Morocco on the Sahara issue reflects a significant diplomatic shift, not only in bilateral relations between the two countries but also in the broader geopolitical context. This solidarity opens the door to new opportunities for cooperation between Morocco and Mexico, but it also raises questions about the dimensions and sustainability of this change in a rapidly evolving world. Ultimately, the biggest question remains: Could this move mark the beginning of a new era of strategic partnership between Africa and Latin America?
Balanced Critical Analysis:
While the statement reflects a positive shift in the PRI’s position, it is essential to monitor the concrete steps that will follow this declaration. Diplomacy is not just about words but actions that reflect a genuine commitment to strengthening bilateral relations. Moreover, the changing geopolitical context requires both countries to act cautiously to achieve their shared interests without provoking regional or international tensions.
