France has officially supported Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara, the former Spanish colony that has been a point of contention between Morocco and the separatist Polisario Front. This announcement was made in a statement from the Moroccan Royal Court, highlighting the importance of Franco-Moroccan relations.
President Emmanuel Macron’s Message
In a message addressed to King Mohammed VI, French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that “the present and future of Sahara fall under Moroccan sovereignty.” This declaration was made during the celebrations in Tetouan, marking the 25th anniversary of King Mohammed VI’s accession to the throne. Macron reaffirmed France’s consistent stance on this issue, which aligns with Morocco’s national security and is coherent at both national and international levels.
According to the official news agency, President Macron stated, “For France, autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty is the framework through which this issue should be resolved. Our support for the autonomy plan proposed by Morocco in 2007 is clear and unwavering.” He further noted that this plan “is now the sole foundation for reaching a fair, lasting, and negotiated political solution, in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions.”
Macron also pointed out that there is a growing international consensus supporting Morocco’s autonomy plan under its sovereignty. He pledged France’s support for this plan, particularly through backing the efforts of the UN Secretary-General and his personal envoy.
In his message, Macron called on all parties to engage in discussions to achieve a feasible political settlement.
King Mohammed VI’s Response
Following France’s announcement, His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God Assist Him, addressed a message to President Emmanuel Macron. Here is the full text of His Majesty the King’s message:
“Mr. President of the Republic,
It is with interest that I received the important Message You addressed to Me on the occasion of the 25th Throne Day anniversary.
I would like to thank You for Your warm wishes and Your personal commitment to strengthening partnership between Our two countries.
I am particularly pleased with the clear and strong position adopted by France, in Your Message, on the Moroccan Sahara issue.
I fully appreciate Your country’s clear support for Morocco’s sovereignty over this part of its territory, 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.
By recognizing Morocco’s legal titles and immemorial rights, France contributes in strengthening the international momentum that many countries are already supporting and thus putting an end to a conflict inherited from another era.
Thanks to the significant development of the French position and Your determination to act accordingly at internal and international levels, Our two countries will work together to reach a solution that, within the framework of the United Nations, fully respects Morocco’s sovereignty over its Sahara.
The Moroccan people and its vital forces are fully aware of the importance of this decision, adopted by a permanent member of the Security Council, an intimate connoisseur of the past and present of North Africa and a privileged witness to the development of this regional dispute.
In this context, and thanks to the positive momentum that Our bilateral relations are experiencing, promising prospects are opening up for Our two countries in many strategic sectors, making it possible to strengthen the exceptional partnership built over decades on friendship and trust.
In this regard, and as was mentioned during Our previous discussions, I will be happy to receive You in Morocco within the framework of a State Visit, the dates of which will be determined through diplomatic channels.”
Strengthening France-Moroccan Relations
The support by France, a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, is seen by Morocco as a significant and meaningful development that bolsters Moroccan sovereignty over Sahara. This support is part of a broader dynamic led by King Mohammed VI, which has seen many countries around the world support Morocco’s territorial integrity and the autonomy plan as the exclusive framework for resolving this regional dispute.
The importance of Franco-Moroccan relations cannot be overstated. This decision by France underscores the deep historical, cultural, and strategic ties between the two nations. France’s support is pivotal in strengthening Morocco’s position on the international stage and in its quest for a peaceful resolution to the Sahara issue.
Implications of France’s Support
France’s support of Moroccan sovereignty over Sahara carries significant geopolitical implications. It reinforces Morocco’s diplomatic efforts to secure broader international support for its autonomy plan. This move by France is expected to influence other countries’ stances on the Sahara issue, potentially leading to increased support of Morocco’s sovereignty.
Moreover, this support is likely to enhance economic and security cooperation between France and Morocco. As strategic partners, both nations stand to benefit from increased collaboration in various sectors, including trade, investment, counter-terrorism, and cultural exchange.
Regional and International Reactions
The international community has closely monitored the developments following France’s support. Several countries and international organizations have expressed their support for the decision, viewing it as a positive step towards resolving the long-standing conflict. However, there are also voices of concern, particularly from the Polisario Front and its supporters, who continue to advocate for the independence of Sahara.
France’s support of Morocco’s sovereignty over Sahara is a landmark decision that underscores the strong diplomatic relations between the two nations and represents a significant step towards resolving a decades-old conflict. The messages exchanged between President Emmanuel Macron and King Mohammed VI reflect a mutual commitment to peace, stability, and cooperation. As the region moves forward, this development is expected to have far-reaching impacts on the geopolitical landscape and the pursuit of a lasting solution for Sahara.
