Moroccan Sahara issue has witnessed significant developments recently, with an increasing number of countries declaring their support for the Autonomy Plan proposed by Morocco in 2007 as a just solution to the long-standing regional dispute. This plan, presented to the United Nations, is now considered a realistic and practical foundation for achieving regional peace and stability.
Moroccan Sahara: Increasing International Support
In a notable development, Finland recently announced its support for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan, considering it “a good basis for a solution.” This announcement came in a joint communiqué following talks between Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Bourita, and Finland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Elina Valtonen, in Helsinki. The communiqué stated, “Finland considers the autonomy plan presented in 2007 as a serious and credible contribution to the UN-led political process and as a good basis for a solution agreed upon between the parties.” The joint statement emphasized the exclusive role of the United Nations in the political process, and both ministers expressed their support for UN Security Council resolutions and the efforts of the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy to advance this process.
Strengthening French-Moroccan Relations
In another significant move, France, a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, has reaffirmed its explicit support for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan. In a message addressed to King Mohammed VI, French President Emmanuel Macron stated that “the present and future of The Sahara fall under Moroccan sovereignty.” Macron added that the Autonomy Plan is the only viable framework for a fair and lasting resolution to the conflict, in line with UN Security Council resolutions. He also highlighted that this stance aligns with France’s consistent support for Morocco and its clear, steadfast policy on the issue.
In response, King Mohammed VI expressed his appreciation for France’s support, stating that this position strengthened the international momentum backing the Moroccan Autonomy Plan and helps bring an end to the prolonged conflict. The King remarked, “I fully appreciate your country’s clear support for Morocco’s sovereignty over this part of its territory, and the resolute French support for autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty to settle this regional dispute, thereby establishing the plan proposed by Morocco since 2007, as the only basis for achieving it.”
Commendation for King Mohammed VI’s Role
These developments come in the context of significant diplomatic efforts led by King Mohammed VI to strengthen Morocco’s position on the international stage. The King has spearheaded an active diplomatic campaign to garner international support for the Autonomy Plan, resulting in an increasing number of countries declaring their endorsement of this proposal. These efforts include official visits, bilateral talks with world leaders and international organizations, and enhancing economic and political relations with supporting countries.
Positive Impact on Regional Stability
The growing international support for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan reflects a positive shift in the path to resolving the dispute. With more countries expressing their endorsement, Morocco’s position on the global stage is fortified, opening new avenues for achieving peace and stability in the region. This support also enhances the prospects for a political solution that respects the rights of all parties and promotes economic and social development for the region’s inhabitants.
Economic and Diplomatic Implications
The increasing international support for the Autonomy Plan contributes to attracting foreign investments to the region, driving economic growth and prosperity. Observers note that the political stability achievable through this support will improve the business environment and attract more international investments, benefiting the region’s inhabitants and improving living standards.
Support from Arab and African Countries
In addition to European and American support, Morocco’s Autonomy Plan has received increasing endorsement from Arab and African countries. Several African nations have announced their support for Morocco, praising the Autonomy Plan as a practical solution that ensures stability and development. Arab countries, including the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, have affirmed their full support for Morocco’s sovereignty over its territories, viewing this stance as consistent with principles of justice and state sovereignty.
U.S. Endorses Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for the Moroccan Sahara
The United States has consistently supported Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for The Sahara, recognizing it as a serious, credible, and realistic solution to the regional dispute. This support was notably reinforced in December 2020, when the U.S. formally acknowledged Morocco’s sovereignty over The Sahara. The American government believes that the Autonomy Plan provides a stable and sustainable framework for resolving the conflict, promoting peace and prosperity in the region. U.S. support aligns with its broader strategic interests in North Africa, emphasizing the importance of stability, security, and economic development. This endorsement has significantly bolstered Morocco’s international position and has encouraged other nations to back the Autonomy Plan.
Spain Backs Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for the Moroccan Sahara
Spain has recently voiced its support for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for the Moroccan Sahara, recognizing it as a viable and pragmatic solution to the long-standing conflict. The Spanish government views the plan as a substantial step towards achieving lasting peace and stability in the region. This endorsement reflects Spain’s commitment to fostering strong diplomatic and economic ties with Morocco, its close neighbor and strategic partner. Spain’s support aligns with the broader international consensus favoring the Moroccan initiative. This backing from a key European nation significantly strengthens Morocco’s position on the global stage, encouraging further international recognition of the Autonomy Plan.
The increasing number of countries supporting Morocco’s Autonomy Plan reflects the success of Morocco’s diplomatic efforts led by King Mohammed VI and enhances the prospects for reaching a final political solution to this fabricated regional problem. With these positive developments, the region can look forward to a more stable and prosperous future under Moroccan sovereignty. This international support strengthens Morocco’s position on the global stage and paves the way for economic and social development in the Moroccan Sahara region.
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