Morocco Calls for Firm Action on Armed Groups and Drives Vision for African Solidarity

During the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, Morocco's Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita passionately addressed the assembly, urging the international community to tackle non-state armed groups and reframe Africa as a symbol of opportunity rather than a region plagued by conflict. Speaking in the name of King Mohammed VI, Bourita warned of a world where certainties were fading, noting that over 200 million people worldwide lived under the control of armed groups.

He called for decisive action against these groups and their state sponsors, stressing that “states must take responsibility for sponsoring, harboring, financing, and arming these groups.”

Morocco sought a significant change in international perceptions of Africa, rejecting the notion that it was merely a continent of strife. Bourita declared, “Africa is not a continent of conflicts and a hotbed of problems; it is a resilient region capable of finding its own solutions.” He emphasized King Mohammed VI’s belief in “Africa must trust Africa,” citing ambitious continental projects such as the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline and the Royal Atlantic Initiative, which offer maritime trade access to landlocked Sahel nations. These initiatives showcased Africa's ability to lead economically.

In addition to its economic strategy, Morocco detailed significant commitments to climate action and international peacekeeping. Bourita highlighted the continent's exposure to climate change, announcing Morocco’s goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 53% by 2035. He championed regional cooperation through African Climate Commissions, which are starting in the Congo Basin, Sahel, and African Island States.

Morroco also reaffirmed its support for a two-state solution in the Middle East, participating in the Gaza international stabilization force and moving the Moroccan Sahara dispute toward a final settlement based on Moroccan autonomy, as mandated by Security Council Resolution 2797.

Looking toward its future in global governance, Morocco officially applied for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2028–2029 term. Bourita noted that Morocco, a kingdom with centuries of diplomatic heritage, stood committed to multilateralism, peace, and sustainable development. By connecting Africa’s resilience to global responsibilities, Morocco's speech sent a clear message that the continent was ready to play a vital role in shaping the future of international diplomacy.