BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- In a move that has sparked controversy and raised concerns over its intentions, Morocco has once again demonstrated what some experts are calling a colonialist spirit by agreeing to open its airspace for a French military operation in Niger. This decision has not gone unnoticed, with political analysts questioning Morocco’s motives and its stance on diplomacy in the region.
Algeria, on the other hand, has taken a firm stand against such interventionist policies, emphasizing its commitment to diplomacy and negotiation as the preferred means to address regional challenges. This stark contrast in approaches has led experts to highlight the divergent paths taken by these neighboring North African nations.
Habib Bouri, a prominent Nigerien political analyst, expressed his views on the matter during an appearance on Channel One of the Algerian Radio. He explained, “Algeria’s unwavering position reflects its deeply held convictions that reject any form of military intervention. Instead, Algeria prioritizes diplomatic solutions that serve the best interests of not only Niger’s population but also the broader region.”
Bouri went on to emphasize that Algeria’ stance should come as no surprise, as the country has consistently advocated for dialogue and diplomatic channels to resolve conflicts. “Unlike Morocco,” he noted, “which seems to consistently reveal a colonial face by aligning itself with interventionist agendas.”
This sentiment was echoed by Rabeh Laaroussi, a seasoned political analyst, who asserted, “The policies being pursued under the Mohammed VI regime are undeniably aggressive. They appear to align closely with the French colonial system, raising concerns about the equitable distribution of resources and the well-being of the affected populations.”
While the situation remains complex, experts and analysts continue to scrutinize Morocco’s actions in the context of historical colonial legacies. The decision to permit a foreign military operation on its territory has reignited debates about the nation’s geopolitical motivations and its commitment to diplomacy in a region often marked by instability.
