Rabat – April 17, 2026
The Republic of Ecuador has reaffirmed its strong support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative for the Sahara, describing it as the most credible and realistic path toward resolving the long-standing regional dispute.
The position was outlined in a joint communiqué signed in Rabat following talks between Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, and Ecuador’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility, Gabriela Sommerfeld, who is currently on a working visit to the Kingdom of Morocco.
In the statement, Ecuador reiterated its endorsement of the autonomy initiative proposed by Morocco in 2007, emphasizing that it remains the only serious, credible, and realistic solution to the dispute over the Moroccan Sahara.
Ecuador also welcomed the adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2797 (2025), which supports the autonomy plan under Moroccan sovereignty as a viable framework for achieving a lasting political solution.
Both countries reaffirmed their support for the efforts led by the United Nations, including the role of the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General, aimed at advancing the political process toward a definitive resolution.
Beyond political backing, Ecuador signaled a deepening of its practical engagement in the region. The joint communiqué highlighted Quito’s decision to extend its consular activities to the Moroccan Sahara, in accordance with international law—a move seen as further recognition of Morocco’s territorial integrity.
The two nations also expressed a shared commitment to strengthening economic and trade cooperation in the region. Ecuador voiced interest in exploring investment opportunities and boosting commercial exchanges, particularly as the Moroccan Sahara increasingly serves as a gateway to African markets.
In a further sign of growing ties, Ecuador announced that its ambassador to Rabat is expected to visit the Sahara region soon to help prepare and support upcoming economic initiatives.
The latest development reflects Morocco’s expanding diplomatic momentum, as more countries across Latin America and beyond continue to back the autonomy plan and deepen their engagement with the Kingdom’s southern provinces.
