Rabat, 30 July 2024 – In a landmark development underscoring the deepening of diplomatic ties between Morocco and France, French President Emmanuel Macron has officially informed His Majesty King Mohammed VI that he considers the present and future of Western Sahara to lie within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty. This announcement, conveyed through a formal message on Tuesday, coincides with the 25th anniversary of the King’s accession to the Throne.
In his message, President Macron reaffirmed France’s unwavering stance on this critical issue of national security for Morocco. He emphasized that France intends to align its national and international actions with this position. “For France, autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty is the framework within which this issue shall be resolved,” Macron stated. He further highlighted that France’s support for Morocco’s autonomy plan, proposed in 2007, remains clear and steadfast. This plan, according to Macron, represents the sole basis for achieving a just, lasting, and negotiated political solution in line with United Nations Security Council resolutions.
The French President noted the growing international consensus around the autonomy plan under Moroccan sovereignty. He commended Morocco’s initiatives to advance the economic and social development of the Moroccan Sahara and pledged France’s support for these efforts. “France fully plays its part in all relevant forums,” Macron affirmed, referencing France’s support for the United Nations Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy. “It is time to move forward. I therefore encourage all parties to come together for a political settlement, which is within reach,” he added.
This significant endorsement from France, a permanent member of the UN Security Council, marks a crucial step in bolstering Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara. It reflects the momentum generated by His Majesty King Mohammed VI’s leadership and the broad international support for Morocco’s territorial integrity and autonomy plan. The French commitment underscores a broader global shift towards recognizing Morocco’s sovereignty and supports the ongoing efforts to resolve the regional dispute through diplomatic and political means.
The announcement is poised to strengthen Morocco’s position on the international stage and advance the dialogue towards a sustainable resolution of the Western Sahara issue. It highlights France’s role in supporting Morocco’s sovereignty and further solidifies the bilateral relations between the two nations, reinforcing their mutual commitment to regional stability and development.
As Morocco celebrates the 25th anniversary of King Mohammed VI’s reign, this gesture from President Macron serves as a testament to the enduring partnership between Morocco and France, and a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution to the Western Sahara dispute.
