Spain Warned of Declining Influence in North Africa
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Madrid, Spain — A recent report by the Royal Elcano Institute, a Spanish think tank, has warned that Spain is losing influence in North Africa as Morocco's strategic importance to the United States grows. The report, published this month, analyzes the evolving relationship between the US and Morocco, and its implications for Spain's role in the region.
The report notes that the US-Morocco relationship has expanded beyond security cooperation to include economic, geopolitical, and technological dimensions. This shift is driven by Morocco's ability to connect various strategic areas, including the Middle East, the Atlantic, and Africa. The report highlights Morocco's role in maintaining ties with Gulf kingdoms and Israel, which enhances its appeal to Washington.
For Spain, the primary concern is not that Morocco will replace it as a preferred US partner, but rather the gradual loss of influence over the US agenda in North Africa. The report emphasizes that while Spain possesses significant strategic assets, it needs to leverage them more effectively to maintain its influence.
The report traces the evolution of US-Morocco relations, noting that the partnership began to deepen in the early 21st century. The September 11, 2001 attacks accelerated security cooperation, with the George W. Bush administration seeking to collaborate with moderate Arab governments in the war on terrorism. Morocco became a key partner in North Africa. In June 2004, the US and Morocco signed a Free Trade Agreement that went beyond commerce, viewing Morocco as a moderate Arab and Muslim partner deserving of economic and political reforms.
Economic progress between the two countries coincided with deepening security ties. In June 2004, the US designated Morocco as a Major Non-NATO Ally, facilitating certain forms of US military cooperation, equipment, research, and training. The Obama administration built on this relationship, with a greater focus on political reforms.
The report concludes that while Spain faces challenges in maintaining its influence, it has the potential to strengthen its position by effectively utilizing its strategic assets.
**Context:** This shift in US-Morocco relations and Spain's diminishing influence in North Africa is significant as it reflects broader geopolitical changes in the region. Morocco's strategic importance to the US, coupled with Spain's need to adapt its policies, highlights the evolving dynamics of North African politics and the need for Spain to re-evaluate its approach to maintain its regional standing.
