Maghreb Edition

King of Morocco proposes direct talks with Algeria: Unlikely to happen this yearF

Posted On 8 November 2018

Number of times this article was read : 470

The North Africa Journal –  Nov 8, 2018: The fate of the contested Western Sahara territory and a regional leadership context continue to poison relations between Algeria and Morocco, two countries that have substantial similarities and massive interests in seeing their economic relations progress.  Morocco’s claims of sovereignty over the Western Sahara territory has faced resistance from the Polisario Front, a pro-independence movement that is primarily supported by Algeria.  But the latter sees the issue as one of international dimension and refuses to be drawn into one-to-one talks with Morocco so as to keep it international. Indeed, other major African nations that do not agree with the Moroccan claim include Nigeria and South Africa.

 

 

Subscribe to Urgent Notifications and Newsletter

Most Recent Stories from the Region

Algeria-France Trade Drops 23% with Import and Energy Curbs✓

Trade between Algeria and France fell by roughly 23% in the year ending June 2026, dropping below €9 billion as import controls and political tensions reshape the relationship. Algeria’s tighter oversight of foreign purchases has sharply reduced French exports—particularly in food, automotive equipment, and industrial goods—while energy-driven exports to France also declined. The figures point to a broader shift as Algeria diversifies suppliers and reduces reliance on its former primary trading partner.

Morocco Faces Balancing Test Over Potential Gaza Security Role✓

A reported plan for a Moroccan military outpost in Gaza is raising questions about Rabat’s regional strategy. While participation in a multinational stabilization force could be framed as humanitarian and security support, a visible troop presence inside an Israeli-controlled area risks political backlash at home and abroad. The proposal highlights the tension between Morocco’s ties to Israel and its longstanding positioning as a supporter of Palestinian interests.

Written by The North Africa Journal

The North Africa Journal is a leading English-language publication focused on North Africa. The Journal covers primarily the Maghreb region and expands its general coverage to the Sahel, Egypt, and beyond, when events in those regions affect the broader North Africa geography. The Journal does not have any affiliation with any institution and has been independent since its founding in 1996. Our position is to always bring our best analysis of events affecting the region, and remain as neutral as humanly possible. Our coverage is not limited to one single topic, but ranges from economic and political affairs, to security, defense, social and environmental issues. We rely on our full staff analysts and editors to bring you best-in-class analysis. We also work with sister company MEA Risk LLC, to leverage the presence on the ground of a solid network of contributors and experts. Information on MEA Risk can be found at www.MEA-Risk.com.