Lisbon Leans In: Portugal Endorses Morocco’s Sahara Autonomy Plan as Key to Lasting Peace

In a powerful display of diplomatic alignment, Portugal has announced its full support for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as the “most serious, credible, and constructive” framework to resolve the long-standing dispute over the Moroccan Sahara.

This clear stance was articulated in a Joint Statement signed on Tuesday in Lisbon by Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, and Portugal’s Minister of State and Foreign Affairs, Paulo Rangel. The declaration underscores a growing international consensus that views Morocco’s 2007 Autonomy Initiative as a realistic path toward a lasting political settlement.

Portugal’s endorsement comes amid rising global backing for Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces, fueled by the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, who has spearheaded diplomatic efforts to rally support for a solution grounded in compromise and realism.

The Portuguese government emphasized the serious and credible efforts Morocco has made within the United Nations framework to advance a fair and enduring resolution. Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to UN Security Council Resolution 2756, which stresses the responsibility of the involved parties to pursue a negotiated, pragmatic outcome.

By joining the ranks of countries supporting the Moroccan Autonomy Plan, Portugal not only strengthens its bilateral ties with Rabat but also aligns itself with the international momentum seeking stability and prosperity in the Maghreb and Sahel regions.

This latest declaration signals Portugal’s recognition of the strategic importance of the Moroccan Sahara issue and reflects a growing belief that Morocco’s approach offers the best hope for a durable peace in the region.