Algeria Expels Moroccan Diplomat, Raising Tensions Between Neighbors

The expulsion of the Moroccan diplomat by the Algerian regime "constitutes an unjustified targeting of the person concerned, and represents an escalation that goes to the heart of bilateral relations between the two countries, and compromises the chances of dialogue and reconciliation," denounces the association in a press release. It condemns the Algerian decision to expel the Moroccan vice-consul, "as a violation of diplomatic practices and international conventions governing consular relations, which contributes to deepening the differences and compromising the chances of resolving conflicts by peaceful means".

According to the association, this measure "is part of Algeria’s policies that further widen the gap between the two brotherly peoples, and confirms the hostile position it adopts towards the Kingdom of Morocco, which manifests itself in a number of increasingly aggressive decisions in recent years." Among these decisions is the collective expulsion of Moroccan citizens from Algeria in flagrant violation of human rights, as well as the closure of borders, which has been going on for a long time and has had negative effects on social and economic relations between the two countries, the association specifies, while totally rejecting the "continuous aggressive policies followed by Algeria against Morocco."

The association has called for an "immediate withdrawal of this unjust decision by the Algerian authorities, and the need to reopen the channels of dialogue between the two countries to resolve differences in the interest of the two brotherly peoples." Recalling the orientations of King Mohammed VI, who has repeatedly called for the opening of the doors of dialogue with Algeria, it stressed the importance of building bridges of cooperation between Morocco and Algeria, through mutual respect, exchange of opinions and common interests, thus contributing to strengthening security and stability in the Maghreb region and the Arab world.

The association says it is ready "to do everything in its power to promote international dialogue, uphold the principles of justice and human rights, in order to achieve lasting peace between the countries of the region".