Algerian FM Attaf Speaks Candidly on Palestine, Maghreb Union, and Algerian-Moroccan Relations
BY: Dr. Hana Saada
ALGIERS- In a comprehensive interview with Al Jazeera, Algerian Minister of Foreign Affairs Ahmed Attaf demonstrated a diplomatic finesse as he tackled critical issues such as the Palestinian cause, the state of the Maghreb Union, and Algeria’s stance on relations with Morocco.
Addressing the pressing situation in the Arab world, particularly the Palestinian issue amid Zionist bombardments in Gaza, Attaf lamented the lack of unity among Arab states. He underscored the fragmentation of Arab countries, emphasizing their inability to present a unified front and advocate for a political solution to the Palestinian cause.
Attaf highlighted the diminishing Arab solidarity, which has transformed over the years from substantive support to symbolic gestures and financial aid. The League of Arab States, designed to be a political force for 22 member states, has often been reduced to ceremonial resolutions that reiterate support for the creation of a Palestinian state within the 1967 borders. According to Attaf, individual interests have overridden the collective interest in the establishment of a Palestinian state.
The Algerian foreign minister expressed concern over the weakened Arab voice on the Palestinian issue, pointing out that there is no longer a united Arab front. He stated, “The Arab voice is fragmented, dispersed,” reflecting the current state of disarray within Arab nations, which, in his view, translates into geopolitical weakness.
Furthermore, Attaf noted that the world has not seriously discussed a political solution to the Palestinian question for the past 25 years. He highlighted the lack of emphasis from the Arab world to prioritize and globalize the Palestinian issue. In his encounters with ministers, Attaf observed a noticeable shift in priorities away from the Palestinian question.
Attaf attributed this shift to a lack of Arab insistence on placing the Palestinian issue on the global agenda. He acknowledged that the Arab world’s decreasing emphasis on the Palestinian cause coincided with its engagement in external plans that contributed to destabilizing and destroying member states of the Arab League, citing examples such as Syria, Libya, and Iraq.
Shifting to the Maghreb region, Attaf discussed the frozen activities of the Maghreb Union, highlighting its current state of inactivity. Regarding relations with Morocco, he stated, “In our relationship with Morocco, we can say that Algeria is more willing to expedite the search for a political solution.” Attaf expressed awareness, shared by other countries, of the importance of building the Maghreb Union, despite its current stagnation.
Expressing optimism, Attaf conveyed his dream of reviving the Maghreb Union. He affirmed Algeria’s readiness to prepare the groundwork for this revival and indicated the country’s willingness to accelerate the political solution-seeking process with Morocco.
In conclusion, Ahmed Attaf’s interview provides valuable insights into Algeria’s diplomatic approach to regional and international issues, emphasizing the need for collective action and revived dialogue to address longstanding challenges.
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