Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita made his first official visit to Skopje this week, meeting with North Macedonian Foreign Minister Timčo Mucunski to deepen bilateral relations and explore new opportunities for cooperation.
The high-level meeting, which took place in the capital city of Skopje, aimed to enhance political dialogue and pave the way for partnerships in key sectors including trade, tourism, culture, and infrastructure. Both nations emphasized their mutual desire to translate political goodwill into tangible results for their citizens.
Political Ties Beyond Diplomacy
At a joint press conference following their discussions, Foreign Minister Mucunski highlighted the broader significance of the relationship.
“However, our bilateral relationship is more significant than the politics itself,” he stated. “They should mean more achievements for our businesses and citizens, too.”
To this end, Mucunski announced plans for a North Macedonia–Morocco Business Forum, to be held in Morocco. The initiative will bring together entrepreneurs and investors from both nations, aimed at identifying investment priorities and exploring trade opportunities.
“This forum will serve as a platform for direct engagement between our business communities, and will spotlight the kinds of investments and partnerships we should pursue,” he added.
Shared Strategic Values
Both ministers acknowledged the common strategic values that unite their countries. Mucunski referenced Morocco’s positive relations with the European Union, the United States, and the United Kingdom, three international partners that are also crucial to North Macedonia’s foreign policy ambitions.
“We recognize Morocco as a bridge between continents,” Mucunski said. “Its ties with the EU, the US, and the UK are aligned with our own strategic outlook, particularly as we pursue full EU membership.”
Practical Steps: Flights and Trade
Among the most promising outcomes of the talks is the proposal to establish direct air links between North Macedonia and Morocco. Such a move would significantly ease travel, boost tourism, and stimulate bilateral trade.
Minister Bourita echoed his counterpart’s sentiments, noting that improving connectivity is essential to building a sustainable partnership.
“Direct flights will create new opportunities, not just for tourism, but also for logistics and commercial exchange,” he said.
Common Ground on Western Sahara
The ministers also reaffirmed their shared support for the UN-led peace process on Western Sahara, with North Macedonia expressing appreciation for Morocco’s 2007 autonomy proposal as a credible and realistic path toward a lasting resolution.
This alignment further reflects the diplomatic understanding between the two countries, and Morocco’s growing role in fostering regional and international dialogue.
A Symbolic and Strategic First
The visit marks a first-ever trip by a Moroccan Foreign Minister to North Macedonia, underscoring a shift in Rabat’s international engagement strategy, reaching beyond traditional partners to build bridges across Eastern Europe and the Balkans.
Analysts view this development as part of Morocco’s broader push to diversify its global alliances while enhancing its soft power and economic influence.
A Move in the Right Direction?
With concrete plans already underway, from business forums to direct flights both sides expressed optimism about the future of this budding partnership.
“This is just the beginning,” said Mucunski. “Our citizens and businesses will be the true beneficiaries of this strengthened cooperation.”
As global geopolitics continue to shift, the Morocco–North Macedonia alliance may offer a model for how mid-sized nations can find common ground, amplify their voices, and achieve mutual growth on the international stage.
Read Also: Mozambique and Russia Strengthen Defence Ties Amid Ukraine War Concerns
