The Struggle for Dominance and Resources in Africa Between the United States and China: An Overview of Morocco’s Policies in Its International Partnerships
The struggle for dominance and resources in Africa is intensifying between the United States and China, with both nations seeking to bolster their influence in a region rich in natural resources and economic opportunities. This conflict arises at a time of growing global interest in the African continent, presenting African nations with complex choices and challenges in managing their international partnerships.
Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, participated in the ministerial meeting of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in Beijing, marking the 24th anniversary of the forum’s establishment. This forum is regarded as a central platform for partnership between China and the African continent, based on principles of solidarity, cooperation, and respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
MFA Nasser Bourita took part, today in Beijing, in the Ministerial Meeting preparing for the Summit Meeting of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), which will be held from September 4 to 6 in China.#FOCAC2024 #ChinaAfrica pic.twitter.com/gOso15RTBJ
— Moroccan Diplomacy 🇲🇦 (@Marocdiplo_EN) September 3, 2024
However, the question arises: How can African nations, including Morocco, balance their partnerships with major powers like China and the United States while maintaining their national sovereignty and achieving their economic interests?
For Morocco, territorial integrity is a fundamental issue that forms a cornerstone of its foreign policy. In all the partnerships Morocco enters with other countries, it consistently adheres to the principle of respecting territorial integrity. Morocco’s stance on the Moroccan Sahara issue demonstrates how it insists on incorporating this principle into any international agreements or partnerships.
In the broader context, as the United States and China vie for resources and influence in Africa, African nations, including Morocco, must develop smart strategies to safeguard their national interests. Can Morocco leverage this conflict to achieve economic and developmental gains? Can other African nations capitalize on the rivalry between major powers to develop their infrastructure and enhance their economic growth?
This struggle between the United States and China over Africa presents new challenges and opportunities for Morocco. As major powers seek to expand their influence in the region, Morocco must establish clear safeguards to ensure the protection of its national interests, especially regarding the Moroccan Sahara issue. Will Rabat be able to advance in its international partnerships without compromising these fundamental principles? Can it strengthen its regional and international role amidst this competition?
Thus, the main question remains: How can Morocco and other African nations benefit from this conflict without falling into the trap of excessive reliance on either of the major powers?
