Politics

Taiwan seeks diplomatic solution to travel disruption with Morocco

09:09

By: Azzat Manal

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Taiwanese authorities are seeking clarification from Morocco after Rabat suspended the processing of documents required for short-term visa procedures, creating significant difficulties for Taiwanese citizens planning to travel to the North African country.

Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it has opened diplomatic channels with Moroccan authorities to understand the reasons behind the measure. Taipei has also approached several countries with close relations to seek assistance in clarifying the situation and finding a way to restore normal travel arrangements.

According to Taiwanese officials, the suspension has effectively made it extremely difficult for citizens to complete the procedures required for short visits to Morocco. The affected travelers include people planning to visit the country for tourism and business purposes.

Moroccan authorities reportedly instructed their embassies and consulates on July 20 to stop processing what are described as visa confirmation documents required by Taiwanese nationals before traveling to Morocco for short stays.

Taiwanese officials have stressed that they do not currently believe the measure specifically targets Taiwan. They noted that the procedure also affects nationals of other countries and territories subject to similar requirements, including Iran and Kosovo.

Nevertheless, Taiwan considers its citizens among the groups most affected by the suspension because of the relatively high number of applications. Taipei has therefore intensified contacts with Morocco, both directly and through diplomatic channels in third countries.

The dispute has also resulted in a reciprocal measure from Taiwan. On July 30, ten days after Morocco's decision, Taipei announced that it would suspend the processing of most visa applications submitted by Moroccan citizens.

Taiwan's restrictions include several exceptions. Certain applications may still be considered following special authorization, particularly those involving family visits, education, diplomatic or official missions and medical treatment.

The developments have introduced uncertainty into travel and business exchanges between Morocco and Taiwan. Tourism operators, businesses and travelers could face additional administrative difficulties if the suspension remains in place for an extended period.

Taipei has emphasized that it wants to preserve normal movement between the two sides and is seeking a diplomatic solution rather than an escalation of the dispute. Taiwanese authorities are also waiting for an official explanation from Rabat regarding the reasons behind the suspension.

The issue comes at a time when travel procedures involving Taiwanese passport holders have attracted wider diplomatic attention in several countries. For Taiwan, obtaining clear information from Morocco remains the immediate priority as both sides consider how to prevent the situation from disrupting tourism, business and other legitimate travel.