UK supports Moroccan Autonomy Plan

UK supports Moroccan Autonomy Plan \ Newslooks \ Washington \ Sahara issue \ In a pivotal diplomatic development, the United Kingdom has publicly endorsed the Moroccan Autonomy Plan for the Sahara, labeling it “the most credible, viable, and pragmatic basis for resolving the dispute.” This formal position, outlined in a Joint Communiqué signed in Rabat, marks a significant milestone in UK-Morocco relations and reflects the evolving international stance in favor of Moroccan sovereignty over the territory.
The Joint Communique, issued at Morocco’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasizes the UK’s intent to align its actions with this stance across bilateral, regional, and international platforms. London’s recognition of the Sahara issue’s central importance to Morocco comes as part of a broader appreciation of its role in fostering regional stability and integration across North Africa.
The statement praises what it terms the “positive momentum” surrounding the issue, attributed to the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. It reiterates that a resolution to the Sahara dispute would help drive both North African stability and greater economic cooperation, aligning with mutual strategic goals for the region.
In a major economic signal, the communique confirmed that UK Export Finance is prepared to consider supporting development projects in the Sahara region. This commitment forms part of a larger £5 billion initiative aimed at boosting economic projects throughout Morocco. The British government further recognizes Morocco as a critical gateway for socio-economic development across Africa, underlining its strategic value not just in North Africa but across the continent.
The communique, co-signed by foreign ministers from both countries, also reaffirms their shared commitment to the UN-led political process. Specifically, it highlights support for Staffan de Mistura, the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Sahara. The UK expressed its willingness to actively assist the UN envoy and all stakeholders involved in the resolution process.
Crucially, the UK, as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, shares Morocco’s view that resolving the Sahara conflict is long overdue. It declared that a just and lasting solution would serve all parties’ interests while significantly contributing to regional peace and integration. The Joint Communiqué declared, “The time has come to find a solution and advance this issue.”
This marked support from London reinforces the momentum behind Morocco’s Autonomy Plan, a proposal that grants significant self-rule under Moroccan sovereignty. The plan continues to gain traction internationally, with support growing among influential global actors and multilateral institutions.
The British stance strengthens the narrative that Morocco’s approach to resolving the dispute is not only credible but widely acceptable. It also validates Morocco’s diplomatic strategy under King Mohammed VI, who has successfully mobilized support for the initiative across continents.
As international support consolidates behind the Moroccan Autonomy Plan, this announcement from the UK—a major global power and UN Security Council member—sends a strong diplomatic signal. It not only enhances UK-Morocco ties but also deepens Britain’s role in fostering peace and economic progress in North Africa.

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