Algeria’s Offer of Aid to Morocco After Earthquake: Attaf Reveals Unanswered Call-Video

BY: Hana Saada

ALGIERS- Algeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Attaf, voiced regret in an interview with Al Jazeera for Morocco’s refusal of aid offered by Algeria after the earthquake in Al Hoceima last September, shedding light on the strained relations between the two countries.

During the interview, Attaf disclosed that Algeria was among the first countries to extend assistance following the tragic earthquake. Despite his personal contact with his Moroccan counterpart, Nasser Bourita, expressing condolences and offering aid, no response was received from Morocco.

Attaf emphasized that the lack of a response signifies a lack of political will and good faith on the part of Moroccan authorities, fueling tensions between the two nations.

The incident unfolded after Algeria announced the preparation of three planes carrying aid for affected areas. Algeria also opened its airspace to planes transporting aid and injured individuals, showcasing a rare gesture since the closure of borders in 2021.

The rejection of aid further exemplifies the diplomatic stalemate between Algeria and Morocco, especially after the latter’s refusal of a self-determination referendum in Western Sahara, leading to the rupture of diplomatic ties in August 2021.

Despite the challenges, Attaf remains optimistic about the future of Maghreb unity, expressing Algeria’s eagerness to find a swift resolution with Morocco. He highlighted a shared awareness among Maghreb states regarding the importance of Maghreb unity and fraternity, believing that the “dream of Maghreb unity can never be extinguished.”

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