Date: January 30, 2024
Rabat – In a significant development, Panama officially declared its unwavering support for Morocco’s Autonomy Initiative presented in 2007 as the “only basis for a just and lasting solution” to the regional dispute over the Moroccan Sahara. The commitment was expressed during a bilateral videoconference between Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, and his Panamanian counterpart, Janaina Tewaney Mencomo.
A Joint Declaration signed at the conclusion of the talks solidified Panama’s national stance, emphasizing its endorsement of Morocco’s Autonomy Initiative as the most viable foundation for resolving the Sahara dispute. Panama pledged to “define its future action and take position on the basis of this declaration,” signaling a clear alignment with Morocco’s proposed autonomy solution.
The declaration underscores Panama’s belief in the United Nations as the appropriate mechanism to bring together all stakeholders involved in seeking a political solution, aligning with the directives set forth by the UN Security Council. The commitment to advancing the political process at the international level is emphasized, with a call for serious and respectful consideration of Security Council resolutions to identify points of convergence.
This announcement marks a diplomatic success for Morocco’s Sahara policy, as Panama joins the growing list of countries supporting the Autonomy Initiative. The endorsement reflects a shared vision for achieving a just and lasting resolution to the longstanding regional dispute, further strengthening diplomatic ties between Morocco and Panama.
