Moroccan diplomacy is the cornerstone of strengthening the Kingdom’s position on the international stage. For decades, it has relied on a combination of political realism and well-calculated strategic moves. In recent years, Morocco has achieved significant breakthroughs, the most notable being the U.S. recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara in December 2020. However, has this recognition been effectively leveraged? Why hasn’t there been a diplomatic momentum to match this strategic shift?
Fayçal Marjani, President of the Morocco Coexistence Association, raises fundamental questions about the performance of the Moroccan embassy in Washington, highlighting shortcomings that require a fundamental reassessment to ensure more effective diplomacy in the United States.
U.S. Recognition of Moroccan Sovereignty: An Achievement That Has Not Been Materialized?
The American recognition was a major diplomatic gain for Morocco. However, Marjani points out that this shift has not translated into tangible outcomes on the ground. It was expected that this recognition would lead to:
- Significant American investments in the southern provinces, as previously promoted.
- High-level visits by U.S. officials to Laayoune and Dakhla to reinforce diplomatic recognition.
- A stronger integration of Morocco into the U.S. regional strategy, both in terms of security and economy.
However, these developments have not materialized as anticipated, raising questions about the role played by the Moroccan embassy in Washington in advancing these matters.
Is the Moroccan Embassy in Washington Rising to the Challenge?
Marjani believes there is a clear imbalance in the performance of the Moroccan embassy in Washington. He argues that effective embassies do not merely promote official state positions but also proactively:
- Engage with Congress to ensure continued political support.
- Secure backing from influential think tanks that shape U.S. policy.
- Boost economic diplomacy by attracting American investors.
Yet, despite possessing logistical and political resources, the Moroccan embassy has not made progress commensurate with U.S. recognition, raising concerns about the diplomatic strategy in place.
Moroccan Diplomacy: Successes and Failures – A Necessary Comparison
Marjani draws an important comparison between the performance of Moroccan embassies worldwide. He notes that Morocco’s permanent representative to the UN and several ambassadors in European and African capitals have demonstrated remarkable efficiency in defending Moroccan interests, despite limited resources.
So why hasn’t the embassy in Washington achieved the same level of dynamism?
- Is it due to a lack of clear vision?
- A deficiency in diplomatic initiative?
- Or other obstacles preventing the expected results?
These questions highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive evaluation of Moroccan diplomatic performance in the United States.
What’s Needed? Towards More Effective Diplomacy in Washington
Marjani suggests restructuring the Moroccan embassy’s approach by:
- Strengthening ties with U.S. policymakers to ensure the continuity of Sahara recognition.
- Revitalizing economic diplomacy by encouraging American investment in the southern provinces.
- Leveraging media and research institutions to promote Morocco’s stance more effectively.
- Engaging the Moroccan diaspora in the U.S. as a soft power force advocating for Moroccan interests.
Conclusion
Fayçal Marjani believes that U.S. recognition was a major strategic opportunity, yet it was not fully utilized due to diplomatic shortcomings in Washington. Therefore, a reassessment of the embassy’s strategy has become an urgent necessity to maintain the gains achieved and strengthen Morocco’s position within the American political landscape.
