Temps de lecture: 1' Jacob Zuma's visit to Morocco has sparked particular attention from the South African embassy in Rabat, as revealed in a diplomatic note sent on July 11 to Morocco's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The letter, obtained by our editorial team, reads: «The Embassy of the Republic of South Africa in Rabat presents its compliments to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Residing Abroad, Protocol Directorate, and has the honor to request that arrangements be made to allow a delegation led by former South African President H.E. Mr. Jacob Zuma to access the VIP lounge at Rabat-Salé Airport. Mr. Zuma will be visiting Morocco from July 15 to 18, 2025. Arrival: July 15 at 1:45 PM on Air France flight AF1258 from Paris. Departure: July 18 at 2:10 PM on Air France flight AF1259 to Paris». The document also includes the names and passport numbers of the delegation accompanying Zuma, as well as members of a preparatory team scheduled to arrive in Morocco on July 12, 2025. This official correspondence stands in stark contrast to a statement issued on August 6 by the South African Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The ministry, headed by Ronald Lamola, «has registered its strong objection and concern regarding circumstances around the recent visit of an eminent South African leader», referring to Zuma. In line with the ANC's position, the ministry also protested «the use of South African national symbols», during Zuma's meeting with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita. At the conclusion of the visit, Zuma expressed his support for Morocco's 2007 autonomy plan for Western Sahara.
