Morocco Abstains from UN Vote on Russia-Ukraine Conflict, Citing Neutrality

This position of neutrality adopted since the first vote on March 2, was justified by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, explaining that the non-participation of the kingdom should not be subject to any interpretation with regard to its position of principle, in particular its "strong attachment to respect for the territorial integrity, sovereignty and national unity of all Member States of the United Nations".

For Morocco, "in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations, the members of the Organization must settle their disputes by peaceful means and in accordance with the principles of international law, in order to preserve world peace and security."

Last Thursday, the UN adopted, by 140 votes in favor, 5 votes against (Belarus, Eritrea, Russia, North Korea and Syria), and 38 abstentions, a resolution once again demanding the cessation of Russian attacks in Ukraine, in particular any attack on civilians and civilian property.

The organization also called on Member States to "fully fund the 2022 United Nations Humanitarian Response Plan, the United Nations Flash Appeal for Humanitarian Action in Ukraine, as well as the Regional Refugee Response Plan for Ukraine and neighboring countries."