Date: December 17, 2023
The United States has once again affirmed its steadfast stance on the Moroccan Sahara issue, reinforcing its unwavering support for Morocco’s autonomy plan. In a statement released by the U.S. State Department on the eve of the visit to Morocco by U.S. Assistant Secretary for North Africa Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs Joshua Harris, the U.S. reiterated that there is “no change in the clear and consistent U.S. position” on the matter.
The statement directly addressed and refuted recent claims made by some Algerian media outlets, which insinuated a shift in the U.S. position following Assistant Secretary Harris’s visit to Algiers. The U.S. State Department’s assertion of continuity in its stance serves as a clear denial of these allegations, providing clarity on the United States’ unchanged position regarding the Sahara issue.
Support for UN-Led Negotiations:
Emphasizing its commitment to the United Nations-led negotiations facilitated by UN Personal Envoy de Mistura, the U.S. expressed its belief that a negotiated political solution should be realized without further delay. The statement underscores the importance of an outcome that is mutually agreed upon by the involved parties, reflecting their commitment to UN efforts in a spirit of realism and compromise.
The U.S. position advocates for a final resolution to the Sahara issue through UN-led negotiations, highlighting the significance of an agreement reached by the parties involved. It acknowledges that the outcome should be achieved through a process that reflects the commitment of all parties and emphasizes the importance of realism and compromise.
Endorsement of Morocco’s Autonomy Proposal:
In unequivocal terms, the U.S. continues to view Morocco’s Autonomy Proposal as serious, credible, and realistic. This endorsement reinforces the belief that the autonomy plan presents a viable and constructive framework for resolving the longstanding dispute over the Sahara region.
Focus on Strengthening U.S.-Morocco Partnership:
The visit of Deputy Assistant Secretary Joshua Harris to Rabat is not only centered on the Sahara issue but also focuses on enhancing the U.S.-Morocco partnership. The statement emphasizes discussions on various regional security priorities, highlighting the broader diplomatic engagement between the two nations.
The latest statement from the U.S. State Department reiterates the consistency of the United States’ position on the Moroccan Sahara issue, dismissing recent claims of a change in stance. The strong reaffirmation of support for Morocco’s Autonomy Proposal underscores the U.S. commitment to a diplomatic resolution through UN-led negotiations, reflecting a continued dedication to the principles of realism and compromise. As diplomatic engagements between the U.S. and Morocco evolve, this reaffirmed position contributes to the ongoing international dialogue on finding a just and lasting solution to the Sahara dispute.
