In power since July of 1999, King Mohammed VI has been working to strengthen the nation’s foreign diplomatic ties. While Morocco is a traditionally Muslim nation with ties to both the U.S. and Europe, it has never forgotten that it is a member of the African Union first and foremost. This move has actually helped Morocco to become one of the most stable and wealthy African nations on the east coast, as its strongest allies are the countries that are closest in proximity. You can learn more about these changes in diplomacy that are sweeping Morocco via the online military history degree program at Norwich University. Although Morocco formally gained its independence in 1956, knowing its full military history will help you to understand its modern day attitudes and interactions with other countries.
A Very Different Reign
King Mohammed VI set out to rule over the nation of Morocco in a manner that was starkly different from his father. He began by pulling away from extremist Islamist fundamentals that prevented women from being included in the workplace and other citizens from being able to exercise religious freedoms. Ethnic groups that had previously been marginalized were formally protected by King Mohammed VI, enabling them to seek out financial aid from government agencies. Next, the king sought to work more closely with Algeria and Mauritania.
A Change in Foreign Diplomacy Attitudes
Known for its rich textile industry, Morocco quickly began to increase its export industry. In addition to forming treaties with countries that were receptive to receiving exports, King Mohammed VI also began to invest in the mining of natural minerals and chemical development. By earning a military history degree, you can see how the king of Morocco’s shift towards strengthening his country’s economy was fundamental to creating true dependence. Having peace treaties with foreign nations is important when you want to avoid military action, but having the ability to build strong armies and train skilled soldiers cannot be overlooked.
How Morocco’s Modern Treaties and Peace Agreements Have Helped It to Grow
With countries like the U.S. taking military action in Libya, Somalia, and Tunisia, Morocco was quick to work on foreign diplomacy matters. Foreign occupation could disrupt Morocco’s economic stability and cause its citizens to question the king’s authority. As such, King Mohammed VI has been cordial, pragmatic, and calculated about every move made with foreign nations. Extending more civil rights to women helped him to gain more of his people’s approval, even if they were not sure of the outcome at first. As the economy has strengthened, the number of crimes occurring in Morocco has decreased and satisfaction levels have also improved overall.
The best way to show a country’s military power lies in starting wars. In reality, however, being a smart and reserved diplomat will help to showcase strength better than a military strike ever could. As a result of the changes that have been made under King Mohammed VI, Moroccan citizens can look forward to having many more years of peace and prosperity.