During an official visit to Madrid, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita received strong political backing from Spain regarding the contentious Sahara issue. This significant event marks a pivotal moment in a European tour that has shown increasing support for Morocco's autonomy plan. In a meeting with Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares, Bourita witnessed Spain reaffirm its commitment to the autonomy proposal as a viable solution to the Sahara dispute.
Albares emphasized, "Our position on the Sahara is clear: Spain considers the autonomy plan presented by Morocco as the most serious, realistic, and credible basis for resolving this conflict," referencing the Moroccan-Spanish joint declaration from April 7, 2022. This affirmation comes amid a backdrop of evolving bilateral relations, which Albares described as being at the best level in their history. He highlighted key advancements in areas such as migration, trade, education, and infrastructure.
Economic ties between the two nations have reached a historic high, with exchanges nearing 23 billion dollars. Over 6,000 Spanish companies export to Morocco, and approximately 900 have established subsidiaries in the country. Albares also mentioned ambitious projects, including the construction of Africa's largest desalination plant in collaboration with Rabat.
This meeting in Madrid followed Bourita's tour of four Eastern European countries—Estonia, Moldova, Croatia, and Hungary—where local authorities expressed their support for the Moroccan autonomy plan. In each city, the Moroccan initiative was praised as "the most serious, credible, and realistic" basis for a sustainable resolution to the conflict.
As the United Nations Security Council prepares to re-evaluate the Sahara issue, the strategic alignment between Rabat and Madrid, coupled with growing European support, enhances Morocco's standing on the international stage. The Spanish government has joined the chorus of nations, including the United States and France, in endorsing the autonomy plan.
During a press conference, Albares acknowledged the importance of the Sahara issue for Morocco, recognizing the serious and credible efforts made by the neighboring kingdom within the framework of the United Nations to achieve a mutually acceptable solution. He stated, "Spain firmly reaffirms its support for the Moroccan initiative and consolidates the international momentum created, which the latest UN Security Council resolution 2756 welcomed. We urge all parties to harness this momentum."
Both ministers expressed satisfaction with the positive dynamics of Morocco-Spain relations, grounded in transparency, mutual trust, and ongoing constructive dialogue. They reiterated their commitment to strengthening this privileged partnership, which serves as a model for exemplary cooperation.
Albares also highlighted the necessity of fostering a space for cooperation, prosperity, and security in the Mediterranean, particularly at a sensitive time when Morocco is a key partner in revitalizing the Union for the Mediterranean. He pointed to Spain's efforts within the European Union to enhance southern neighborhood relations, including the appointment of a commissioner for the region and the development of a new Mediterranean pact.
Moreover, the ministers noted significant progress in joint projects, including plans for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which are expected to positively impact all aspects of the Morocco-Spain partnership. They acknowledged the importance of the meeting between King Mohammed VI and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez in April 2022, which marked the beginning of a new chapter in the bilateral relations between the two kingdoms.
In summary, Spain's unwavering support for Morocco's autonomy plan not only reflects strengthening ties between the two nations but also signifies a broader shift in international attitudes towards the Sahara issue. With the UN aiming for a resolution by 2025 or 2026, the convergence of interests between Rabat and Madrid appears poised to play a crucial role in the ongoing dialogue.
The future of the Sahara remains uncertain, but the recent developments suggest a growing consensus around Morocco's proposed autonomy plan, which is increasingly seen as a viable pathway to lasting peace in the region.
As both nations look to the future, the prospects for enhanced cooperation in various sectors seem promising, with the commitment to mutual respect and partnership set to guide their interactions. This commitment could very well redefine the landscape of North African diplomacy and contribute to a more stable and prosperous Mediterranean region.
