16 January 2025
Rabat – Malawi has reaffirmed its unwavering support for Morocco’s territorial integrity, including the Kingdom’s sovereignty over the Moroccan Sahara, during high-level talks in Rabat on Thursday. This position was enshrined in a joint statement issued at the conclusion of discussions between Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, and his Malawian counterpart, Nancy Tembo.
The statement reflects Malawi’s clear stance on the Sahara issue, describing the Moroccan Autonomy Plan as the only credible, serious, and realistic solution to the regional dispute. Tembo praised the efforts of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, May God Assist Him, whose leadership has been instrumental in galvanizing international support for this initiative.
Malawi’s Support for Morocco’s Vision
The reaffirmation of support by Malawi underscores the strong diplomatic ties between the two nations and reflects the growing alignment among African nations regarding Morocco’s territorial claims. Minister Tembo noted that Malawi is encouraged by the broad international consensus favoring Morocco’s autonomy proposal, a framework that seeks to provide a practical and enduring solution to the Sahara issue under Moroccan sovereignty.
In her remarks, Tembo emphasized the significance of the United Nations as the exclusive platform for advancing peace efforts in the Sahara region. She also commended Morocco for its commitment to constructive dialogue, which she described as a cornerstone for achieving stability and development in the region.
Morocco and Malawi: Strengthening Diplomatic Relations
The meeting in Rabat serves as a testament to the strong and growing partnership between Morocco and Malawi. Since Malawi’s decision to open a consulate general in Laayoune in 2021, the two nations have deepened their collaboration on political, economic, and social fronts. The opening of the consulate was widely seen as a tangible expression of Malawi’s support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara region.
Minister Bourita welcomed Malawi’s consistent position and emphasized Morocco’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation with African nations. He reiterated Morocco’s focus on economic integration, sustainable development, and the promotion of peace and stability across the continent.
A Broader African and International Context
The joint statement comes at a time when Morocco is witnessing growing recognition of its sovereignty over the Sahara region. Several African nations, along with global powers, have endorsed the Moroccan Autonomy Plan, considering it a realistic and forward-thinking approach to resolving the conflict.
The Sahara issue remains one of the most significant diplomatic priorities for Morocco. With increasing African and international support, the Kingdom is advancing its vision of peace, security, and prosperity in the region. The support from countries like Malawi reflects the strengthening of intra-African solidarity and the shared vision of a peaceful and integrated continent.
Conclusion
Malawi’s renewed support for Morocco’s territorial integrity highlights the strengthening bonds between the two nations and underscores a broader shift in African diplomacy regarding the Sahara issue. As the international community continues to rally behind the Moroccan Autonomy Plan, the role of African nations like Malawi becomes ever more crucial in fostering a stable, united, and prosperous Africa.
