Morocco and Turkey discuss Middle East peace at OIC Summit

On the sidelines of the ongoing Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) summit in Banjul, Gambia, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita held discussions with his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan. 

The meeting underscores the intricate dance of diplomacy amidst the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.

The talks between Morocco and Turkey focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and addressing the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, with a particular emphasis on the peace prospects in Gaza. These discussions are timely, given the current volatile situation in the region.

Morocco's close ties with both Israel and the Palestinian Authority place it in a unique position of influence. Rabat has leveraged these relationships to mediate and facilitate dialogue aimed at fostering stability and peace in the region.

Meanwhile, Ankara continues to engage with authorities in Jerusalem, despite recent months filled with sharp criticisms from Turkish officials. This approach reflects Turkey’s broader foreign policy strategy of maintaining open channels of communication, even amidst strained relations.

The disparity between public opinion and the realities of diplomacy often remains vast.

The meeting between the Moroccan and Turkish foreign ministers in Banjul highlights the ongoing diplomatic efforts to address and potentially resolve the tensions in the Middle East. As stakeholders continue to navigate complex international waters, the importance of such dialogues cannot be overstated.