Echoes of the Earthquake: A Pledge for Peace between Algeria and Morocco

In the fleeting span of twenty precious seconds, Morocco was shaken to its very roots by a terrible earthquake, revealing its vulnerability to the forces of nature. This country of a thousand faces, rich in soul and history, where culture blooms like an oasis in the desert, where cities rise proudly like living monuments, where mountains brush the sky, plains stretch endlessly, seas cradle the shores, and the ocean extends infinitely. All of this, in a single breath, was violently shaken.

Thousands of our brothers and sisters were torn from life by this relentless tragedy, and its repercussions extend far beyond human suffering. They touch every corner of life and existence.

This catastrophe leaves a deep mark, penetrating individual consciousness and transcending the natural instinct of solidarity with our Moroccan compatriots. For some of us, it evokes memories etched in history, significant and distinct pages that Morocco and its people have inscribed in our country’s history, like verses woven from a faithful friendship with this land and its people over centuries.

There are moments in history when the borders drawn by men seem to become insurmountable obstacles, even where solidarity should naturally prevail. Algeria and Morocco, two nations whose destinies seem intricately linked, have engaged in a tragic dance of misunderstandings and divisions. It is deeply sad to reflect on these forty-eight hours, a tragic interval since the devastating earthquake. During this time, Algeria and its closest neighbor, Morocco, have kept their intentions carefully hidden, offering no hint of a concerted plan to rescue those souls crushed by nature’s unleashed fury.

There should be solidarity, brotherhood, the first line of human compassion. An embrace that transcends the sometimes burdensome grievances weighing on the shoulders of leaders, should rise above man-made borders, the dissensions dividing our lands, to extend a helping hand to those affected by this tragedy. There is no room here for distinction or difference, only humanity uniting in an outpouring of generosity in the face of calamity.

Certainly, the threads of diplomacy freeze, and land and air borders remain stubbornly closed, but can this offer a sufficient justification for the hesitations on either side of these borders? The apathy shown in providing the necessary aid to affected Moroccan citizens, as well as the terse statements, reveal the cold intrusion of a time where politics seems to have displaced humanity.

In the heart of this apparent incoherence, one undeniable fact remains: the Algerian and Moroccan peoples share ties forged by history, culture, and blood shed for freedom. This scandalous and unacceptable behavior cannot represent the noble values of cooperation and solidarity that have always been the cornerstone of these societies.

It is imperative to remind the Algerian authorities that Morocco and its people were unwavering allies during the darkest hours of Algeria’s revolution and the trials the country faced. They extended a hand, offered refuge, and shared resources, in the name of that steadfast brotherhood that transcends political borders.

Thus, despite the current turmoil of discord, it is crucial that collective memory resonates in the corridors of Algerian and Moroccan power, and that love and humanity prevail over political divisions. For while borders are drawn with ink and paper, the ties that unite people are woven from compassionate hearts, ready to respond to the call of solidarity, even when the winds of politics blow in the opposite direction.

In the name of the souls bruised by this tragedy that has brought tears to the Greater Maghreb, we raise our solemn voice to proclaim our unwavering commitment to work hand in hand with all sincere souls, on both sides of these borders, in the noble quest to preserve harmony between Algeria and Morocco. In these lands where some seem to strive to sow the seeds of discord, we promise to do everything in our power to weave unbreakable bonds of peace.