Amid the positive momentum surrounding the Moroccan Sahara issue, under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, parallel diplomacy has emerged as one of the fundamental pillars in defending the territorial integrity of the Kingdom. In this context, the magazine “Diplomacy”, in partnership with the World League of Moroccan Residents Abroad and civil society associations in the Netherlands, organized the first training session under the theme “Mohammed VI Battalion”, a national initiative reflecting the commitment of the Moroccan diaspora to the vital causes of the Kingdom.
Jamal Soussi: Leader of Parallel Diplomacy
Considered one of the pioneers of parallel diplomacy, Jamal Soussi, writer, journalist, and publishing director of the magazine “Diplomacy”, has contributed through his ideas and actions to strengthening the central role of the Moroccan community in advocating for the national cause. During his opening speech, Soussi emphasized that Morocco’s diplomatic victories, under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, are not an end in themselves but rather a motivation to redouble efforts and prepare to face the challenges related to the national cause.
He also noted that the choice of Amsterdam to host this training session reflects Morocco’s strategic vision to strengthen the presence of the Moroccan diaspora abroad as a soft diplomatic force, contributing to supporting the Kingdom’s supreme interests. He stressed the importance of civil society’s involvement in unifying ranks and raising awareness about the Moroccan Sahara issue through legal, historical, and political arguments that confirm Morocco’s legitimacy over its Sahara.
The Training Session: A National School Abroad
The “Mohammed VI Battalion” training session saw massive participation from members of the Moroccan community in the Netherlands, ranging from artists and imams to intellectuals, as well as prominent figures from the Moroccan Jewish community, reflecting the national unity that brings Moroccans of all backgrounds together under the banner of the homeland.
The sessions focused on advocacy techniques for the cause of territorial integrity, emphasizing the presentation of solid legal and historical evidence, thereby strengthening Morocco’s position on the international stage. In this context, Mustapha Zahir, Secretary-General of the “Mimouna” association in Amsterdam, described this initiative as a “concrete translation of the royal vision”, stressing that autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty is the only viable and internationally supported solution.
For his part, Mr. Lahcen Farah, President of the “Social Participation” foundation in Amsterdam, affirmed that this training session reinforces the role of the Moroccan community as a key player in parallel diplomacy and its ability to convey an authentic image of the national cause while countering misinformation propagated by hostile parties.
Interventions by Association Presidents and Civil Society
The session was marked by active participation from Moroccan association presidents in Amsterdam, who emphasized the importance of involving the community in defending national causes. Mr. Sameul Kaspi, President of the “Mimoeuna” association, noted that this session comes at a crucial time that requires intensified efforts to unify the Moroccan voice abroad. He also stressed that civil society constitutes a pressure force capable of influencing European public opinion in favor of the national cause.
For his part, Mr. Mustapha Zahir, Secretary-General of the “Mimouna” association, highlighted that this initiative is a cornerstone toward creating an international advocacy network for the Moroccan Sahara cause, affirming that Moroccan associations abroad have the capacity to make a difference if coordination among them is strengthened.
As for Ms. Nezha, an activist for women’s rights and citizenship, she highlighted the role of Moroccan women in strengthening parallel diplomacy, noting that women in the community can play an essential role in disseminating the national discourse and defending territorial integrity in a diplomatic and effective manner.
Toward the Establishment of a Specialized Institution for Parallel Diplomacy
One of the notable outcomes of this session was the announcement of a project to create an institution specialized in training and qualifying young members and leaders of the Moroccan community worldwide in the field of parallel diplomacy.
This institution will be responsible for organizing training sessions in various European countries, including Belgium, Spain, Denmark, and Sweden, to strengthen Morocco’s presence on the international stage. It will also work to develop practical tools and scientific materials to support advocacy for the Moroccan Sahara cause, relying on an approach that combines rigorous diplomatic discourse and effective media strategy.
Civil Society: Morocco’s Weapon in the Battle for Awareness
Participants in the session affirmed that Moroccan civil society abroad is the first line of defense for national causes, now more aware and committed to the magnitude of its responsibilities. In this regard, Mr. Mamdouh El Johari, President of the Federation of Moroccans in the Netherlands, emphasized that “unity of ranks and clarity of discourse” are the keys to winning the diplomatic battle.
Toward More Effective Parallel Diplomacy
The “Mohammed VI Battalion” initiative is a pioneering step in strengthening parallel diplomacy and creating bridges of communication between the Moroccan diaspora and national institutions. However, the greatest challenge remains ensuring the sustainability of these initiatives and expanding their reach to include as many Moroccans residing abroad as possible.
In a context of current challenges, a fundamental question arises: How can this national momentum be leveraged to ensure a lasting diplomatic impact from the Moroccan community? And how can cooperation between these initiatives and official institutions be strengthened to achieve common goals?
Conclusion: Soldiers in Service of the Homeland
The participation of members of the Moroccan diaspora in such initiatives is a living manifestation of sincere patriotism and a renewal of the commitment to continue the struggle for the unity of the homeland. As His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, said: “Morocco will remain in its Sahara, and the Sahara in its Morocco, until God inherits the Earth and all who dwell upon it.”
From this perspective, every Moroccan, whether inside or outside the country, is a soldier in the battle to preserve the unity of the Kingdom. Their participation in such training is not mere attendance but a practical embodiment of the values of citizenship and sincere belonging to the beloved homeland.
