"By reciprocally extending more favorable privileges and immunities to our consular posts than those currently enjoyed under the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, we concretely demonstrate the high level of trust and confidence attained between our two countries," he said in a speech on the occasion of the signing, via videoconference, of a bilateral agreement on enhanced Privileges and Immunities extended to the counselor corps.
Initialed by the US ambassador in Rabat, David Fischer, and Anas Khales, Ambassador, Director of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccans Abroad, during a ceremony co-chaired by Bourita, and the American Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, the agreement aims to ensure the efficient functioning of the diplomatic representations of the two parties.
Surveying the rich history of bilateral relations, as old as America itself, the minister stressed that this agreement "will allow us to better support the important work carried out by our respective consular officers in service to our citizens abroad. It will also accompany our expanding cooperation in this area."
He affirmed that "just as we concurred in laying the first bricks of what will become the international diplomatic law, we concur today in modernizing it."
On bilateral ties, Bourita noted that Rabat and Washington have always stood together, on the right side of history; be it during the major events that marked the 20th Century or in supporting the noble values of peace and coexistence.
"Today more than ever, our Nations continue to work closely together to tackle the various challenges of the 21st century and to promote the security, stability and shared prosperity of our people," said the minister, underlining the contribution of HM King Mohammed VI to fostering bilateral relations.
HM King Mohammed VI chose to honor the Peace and Friendship Pact sealed two and a half centuries ago, by making it reach an all-time higher level: one of a genuine alliance, based on common interests, shared values and unwavering constancy, said Bourita, highlighting the depth of Moroccan-American relations which date back to 1777.
According to him, over the years, Morocco and the US have been successful in setting up efficient instruments and innovative tools of cooperation across all sectors.
The Free Trade Agreement and two consecutive MCC compacts and the US-Morocco Strategic Dialogue, whose framework allows us to conduct regular, high level consultations on bilateral, regional and international issues, he explained.
The minister lauded the defense and security cooperation which is a beacon of excellence, as reflected by Morocco's status as a U.S. major non-NATO ally and the successful cooperation in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism worldwide.
"Our history is a constant reminder of the exceptional nature of our diplomatic ties. Today, we confirm, if need be, that our commitment to the Moroccan-American alliance is as vibrant and promising as ever," he said, calling for using an "untapped potential".
"As we look to tomorrow, we see untapped potential that will allow our cooperation to strengthen and diversify, and whose future success is ensured by the firm commitment of HM King Mohammed VI to pursue the legacy of His forefathers and elevate our strategic partnership to even greater heights," concluded Bourita.