Israel and Morocco have agreed to establish embassies in each other’s countries following a high-level diplomatic meeting in New York.
The agreement was reached on Wednesday during talks involving the foreign ministers of Israel and Morocco and the United States ambassador to the United Nations.
Diplomatic Relations to Be Upgraded
Israel and Morocco established diplomatic relations in 2020 under the US-backed Abraham Accords, which saw several Arab countries normalise relations with Israel.
Following the latest meeting, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their diplomatic relationship.
According to Israel’s Foreign Ministry, the countries agreed to upgrade their diplomatic missions to full embassies and appoint ambassadors.
A joint statement issued by the US mission to the United Nations said Israel and Morocco believe that full diplomatic relations are in the interest of both countries.
The statement added that stronger relations could contribute to wider peace efforts.
No Date Set for Embassy Opening
The countries did not announce a specific date for opening the embassies.
Israel and Morocco had made a similar announcement in June 2022 during a visit to Morocco by Israel’s then-Foreign Minister, Yair Lapid.
However, the planned embassy openings did not take place at that time.
More Economic Cooperation Planned
The latest agreement also includes plans for increased economic cooperation.
Israel and Morocco said they expect to conclude a series of economic agreements before the end of the year.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry also said high-level reciprocal visits between the two countries are expected in the coming months.
The latest move marks another step in efforts by Israel and Morocco to strengthen their diplomatic and economic relationship.
