A Strengthened Partnership in Diplomatic Ties
Cabo Verde has once again reaffirmed its steadfast support for Morocco’s territorial integrity and sovereignty over its entire territory, including the Moroccan Sahara. In a meeting held in Rabat on February 25, 2025, between Cabo Verde’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Regional Integration, José Filomeno de Carvalho Dias Monteiro, and his Moroccan counterpart, Nasser Bourita, the two nations reinforced their shared vision of stability and unity in the region.
This declaration by Cabo Verde solidifies its position as a key African partner backing Morocco’s sovereignty, aligning with the growing international support for the Moroccan autonomy plan as the most viable and credible solution to the longstanding regional dispute.
Reaffirming Support for the Autonomy Plan
During the press briefing, Minister Dias Monteiro emphasized Cabo Verde’s full endorsement of the autonomy plan that Morocco proposed in 2007. He highlighted that this initiative is the only credible and realistic pathway toward resolving the dispute over the Moroccan Sahara, echoing the sentiment of several countries that have recognized Morocco’s efforts in fostering a sustainable and peaceful resolution.
Monteiro’s statements align with the international momentum driven by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, whose diplomatic efforts have garnered widespread support for the autonomy plan. His Majesty has consistently championed regional stability, economic development, and African unity, further cementing Morocco’s role as a leading force in the continent’s diplomatic landscape.
The UN’s Role in Resolving the Dispute
Minister Dias Monteiro also acknowledged the critical role of the United Nations in addressing the Moroccan Sahara issue, recognizing the organization as the exclusive framework for reaching a realistic, practical, and lasting resolution. His statement underscores Cabo Verde’s commitment to upholding international diplomacy and supporting peaceful solutions to regional conflicts.
Cabo Verde’s firm stance aligns with numerous African and global nations that have endorsed the UN-led process as the legitimate mechanism to resolve the dispute. This reinforces Morocco’s position on the international stage and further isolates separatist movements that lack substantial international backing.
A Testament to Strong Bilateral Relations
Morocco and Cabo Verde have enjoyed growing diplomatic and economic relations in recent years. One of the key milestones in their partnership was the opening of Cabo Verde’s Consulate General in Dakhla in August 2022. This diplomatic move was a clear demonstration of Cabo Verde’s recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara and its commitment to strengthening ties with the Kingdom.
Minister Bourita, in response to his Cabo Verdean counterpart’s reaffirmation of support, expressed gratitude for the unwavering backing Morocco has received from the West African nation. He emphasized the importance of solidarity between African nations in fostering peace, security, and economic development across the continent.
A Broader African and International Momentum
Cabo Verde’s position is part of a broader trend of increasing African and international support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara. In recent years, several African countries, including Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and Gabon, have also established consulates in the Moroccan Sahara, recognizing the region as an integral part of the Kingdom.
This growing momentum is a direct result of Morocco’s diplomatic strategy, which prioritizes African cooperation, economic integration, and sustainable development. Under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, Morocco has been instrumental in strengthening South-South partnerships and fostering economic opportunities across the continent.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Cooperation
Beyond diplomatic and political support, Morocco and Cabo Verde continue to collaborate in various sectors, including trade, education, and security. The reaffirmation of Cabo Verde’s stance on the Moroccan Sahara is expected to pave the way for deeper economic cooperation, investment opportunities, and cultural exchanges between the two nations.
This development marks another diplomatic victory for Morocco, reinforcing its sovereignty over the Sahara and demonstrating the increasing alignment of African nations in support of stability and regional unity. With continued backing from allies like Cabo Verde, Morocco’s vision for the Sahara as a hub for economic development and regional integration is becoming a reality.
Cabo Verde’s unwavering stance is yet another testament to the Kingdom’s successful diplomacy and Africa’s collective commitment to progress and unity.
