Latest news with #AutonomyProposal
Maroc
3 days ago
- Politics
- Maroc
UK Position Will Strengthen Momentum Around Moroccan Sahara Issue Under HM the King's Leadership
The position expressed by the United Kingdom regarding the Moroccan Sahara will help reinforce the momentum this issue has gained under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, stated Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, on Sunday in Rabat. This position represents "a significant development," given that the United Kingdom is a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and a member of the Group of Friends of the UN Secretary-General on the Sahara, noted Bourita during a press briefing with the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, David Lammy. In this regard, the minister noted that "four countries within the Group of Friends of the UN Secretary-General on the Sahara have now joined this dynamic and expressed support for the Autonomy Initiative—namely France, the United States, Spain, and now the United Kingdom." Bourita also emphasized that the United Kingdom has always been an influential and credible voice at the European, UN, and international levels. He added that this position will also have positive economic implications, as UK Export Finance may consider supporting investment projects in the southern provinces of the Kingdom. He stressed that Morocco does not view the growing support for its position on the Sahara as a privilege or a means of maintaining the status quo, but rather as a factor that can help bring about a resolution to a conflict that has lasted more than 50 years. Bourita noted that the United Nations and the international community now have a real opportunity to reach a definitive solution to this dispute, based on the Autonomy Initiative proposed by Morocco within the framework of its sovereignty. He expressed hope that all parties will engage seriously in finding a lasting resolution to the issue. Furthermore, Bourita described Lammy's visit to the Kingdom as "historic" in many respects. He explained that this is the first visit by a UK Foreign Secretary to Morocco since 2011, and it will allow for a qualitative leap in bilateral relations. It also provided an opportunity to hold the 5th session of the Strategic Dialogue between the two countries and to discuss various bilateral and regional issues. "This visit is also significant and historic in that it enabled the United Kingdom to express its position on the Moroccan Sahara," the minister added, noting that the joint communiqué signed on this occasion affirms that the United Kingdom "considers the Autonomy Proposal presented [by Morocco] in 2007 as the most credible, serious, and pragmatic basis for a lasting resolution to the regional dispute" over the Moroccan Sahara, and "will continue to act at the bilateral level, particularly in economic matters, as well as regionally and internationally, in line with this position." Bourita also stated that this visit marks a turning point in relations between the two countries. He emphasized that, in line with the High Royal Directives aimed at diversifying and strengthening partnerships, Morocco has engaged in a dialogue to further develop "our bilateral relations based on the centuries-old ties between the two countries and the special relationship uniting the two Royal Families." As a result, the minister stressed that the two countries are working to inject new momentum into their bilateral relations and to elevate the Morocco-UK partnership to cover all sectors, including the economy, security, culture, defense, investment, education, and scientific research. In addition, Bourita recalled that four agreements were signed on this occasion, with more expected to be concluded in the coming two days, giving new impetus to Morocco–UK relations and ushering in a new era of bilateral cooperation. (MAP: 02 June 2025)
Arab News
16-04-2025
- Business
- Arab News
The president, the sultan and a global trade war: What now for Morocco and the US?
Amid the global uncertainty of tariffs, trade wars and shifting geopolitical alliances, one thing is for certain: Morocco remains a key strategic partner for the US in Africa. Donald Trump's first term as president was notable for the US recognition in 2020 of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara. Early in his second term, this commitment was reaffirmed by his secretary of state, Marco Rubio. During a recent meeting with the Moroccan foreign minister, Nasser Bourita, Rubio reiterated that Morocco's Autonomy Proposal for Western Sahara was 'serious, credible (and) the only basis for a just and lasting solution to the dispute.' This is the latest iteration in a centuries-old strategic bilateral partnership. Morocco and the US have maintained strong relations, rooted in mutual interests, for more than two centuries. Sultan Sidi Mohammed bin Abdullah initiated the friendship in the 18th century when Morocco became the first country to recognize the newly independent United States by announcing that all US-flagged vessels could freely enter Moroccan ports. Commercial and diplomatic relations between the two countries commenced in 1786 with the signing of the Moroccan-American Treaty of Peace and Friendship. The strong relationship that ensued led to the establishment of a US diplomatic mission, which was housed within the stunning Tangier American Legation Institute for Moroccan Studies for nearly 150 years. Notably, this was the first American government property in another country. The strength of this bilateral relationship was evident throughout the 20th century. During the Second World War, Morocco became a key location for Operation Torch and the Casablanca Conference, which were part of the Allied efforts to prevent the spread of Axis influence in North Africa. The US also supported Moroccan independence from France, laying the groundwork for future ties. After Morocco gained its independence in 1956, the US swiftly recognized the new state and deepened existing diplomatic, security and economic cooperation. Morocco has long been a favored investment destination for the US Zaid M. Belbagi During the Cold War, Morocco was officially nonaligned but effectively served as a reliable American ally against the spread of communism in North Africa. King Hassan II played a moderate role in Arab politics and fostered close relations with Washington during this period. Morocco allowed American forces transit and access rights to Moroccan air bases, and the Kingdom received more than $400 million in US aid between 1957 and 1963. For decades, through its economic and military aid, the US indirectly supported Morocco's claim over Western Sahara. Building on this strong foundation, the bilateral relationship continued to evolve in the late 20th century with a focus on diplomatic and counterterrorism cooperation. This period was marked by several notable, high-level visits such as King Mohammed V's meeting in Washington with President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1957, and Vice President Richard Nixon's visit to Morocco the same year. The next monarch of Morocco, King Hassan II, visited six American presidents during his reign. Morocco became a natural partner for peace and prosperity for the US, given the country's position as a gateway to Africa and the Middle East, its proximity to Europe, and its domestic stability. In recognition of Morocco's commitment to regional stability and security, in 2004 the US designated the country a major non-NATO ally. Decades-old bilateral counterterrorism cooperation includes intelligence sharing, regional security initiatives such as the Trans-Sahara Counterterrorism Partnership, and joint military exercises such as the annual African Lion. Morocco's efforts to tackle radicalization and violent extremism align with American goals in the region. Economic and trade relations are another cornerstone of the bilateral relationship, with a free trade agreement signed in 2006 to mark these ties. The two countries exchanged more than $7 billion in trade in 2024, a 37 percent increase over the previous year. Fertilizers, vehicles and agricultural products are among the main traded items. Trump's recent tariffs announcement imposed a 10 percent baseline tariff on Morocco. Though a challenge for bilateral trade, it was one of the lowest rates in North Africa and might allow Morocco to find growth opportunities while other partners in the region, and in Asia, are facing significantly higher tariffs. Morocco has long been a favored investment destination for the US, which accounts for more than 30 percent of all foreign investment in the country, worth more than $750 million. Nearly 120 American companies operate in Morocco, with manufacturing, real estate, telecommunications, tourism and energy some of the key areas of interest for investment. There has also been substantial American investment in the automotive and vehicles industry in the country, such as an expansion by the Lear Corporation. Aerospace majors such as Boeing have also made significant inroads in the Moroccan market. All of this clearly indicates that Morocco's strong investment climate provides opportunities for American companies. As an acknowledgment of Western Sahara's geostrategic location and its potential for opening up trade with Africa, the US is keen to invest in Dakhla and the wider region. In 2022, Danforth Investors, Global Special Projects and SEC Newgate US signed two memorandums of understanding with the Council of the Dakhla-Oued Eddahab region to promote American investment in Dakhla. With continual expansion in several areas, the relationship between the US and Morocco remains robust, more than two centuries after its genesis. It will continue to grow, thanks to new programs such as King Mohammed VI's Atlantic Initiative, which aims to provide landlocked Sahel countries with access to the Atlantic Ocean through Moroccan infrastructure. American investment will provide significant support for the execution of this vision. There is also strong potential for collaboration in emerging industries such as renewable and green energy, digital infrastructure and space technology. When Trump was elected president for the first time, Morocco's central role in regional peace was acknowledged through the Abraham Accords. Rubio's recent reaffirmation of this sentiment bodes well for the future of US-Morocco ties in a time of global political uncertainty and an increasing American withdrawal from the Global South. Morocco therefore remains a vital and time-tested strategic partner for the US, due to its domestic stability, geographic location and commitment to counterterrorism. As a gateway to trade and diplomacy with Africa, Europe and the Middle East, it can be a lucrative pillar for the US in the new world order. • Zaid M. Belbagi is a political commentator and an adviser to private clients between London and the Gulf Cooperation Council. X: @Moulay_Zaid
Ya Biladi
15-04-2025
- Politics
- Ya Biladi
Sahara : De Mistura aligns with roadmap outlined by the Trump administration
UN envoy Staffan de Mistura presented a report on the situation in Western Sahara to members of the Security Council during a closed-door session last night. According to AFP, De Mistura emphasized that the next three months represent a key opportunity to produce a regional de-escalation and separately a reenergized roadmap towards the resolusion of the Western Sahara conflict». This note of «optimism» comes just days after De Mistura's April 9 meetin g in Washington with a former member of the Trump administration. Following this encounter, and according to leaked information, UN Secretary-General Antanio Guterres has extended De Mistura's mandate for another year, through the end of 2026. An official announcement is expected in the coming days. To recall, the Italian-Swedish diplomat had expressed a desire to resign last October during a meeting of the Security Council's 15 members. The Trump Factor This development follows renewed support from the Trump-era political sphere for Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara. The United States has also called on all parties to engage in negotiations based on Morocco's autonomy initiative, within the framework of the kingdom's sovereignty. U.S. Senator Marco Rubio reaffirmed, in a statement following his April 8 meeting with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, «President Trump's urging for the parties to engage in discussions without delay, using Morocco's Autonomy Proposal as the only framework, to negotiate a mutually acceptable solution». De Mistura's proposed roadmap appears to align with this approach. After the Security Council session on April 14, the Polisario Front insisted that «the Western Sahara issue remains on the United Nations agenda, despite Moroccan propaganda». Just hours earlier, Morocco's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Omar Hilale, told Medi1 TV that he hoped the 50th anniversary of the Green March, to be marked on November 6, 2025, would be celebrated «under better conditions». «As De Mistura mentioned, the coming months will be crucial for resolving the conflict», a Moroccan source close to the dossier told Yabiladi. «Morocco is actively working to have the issue removed from the UN's Fourth Committee, pointing out that it was the kingdom that originally filed the matter—before the creation of the Polisario and even before Algeria's independence—so that it would be treated as a regional dispute primarily involving Morocco and Algeria». This Moroccan push faces resistance from Algeria. Between April 2 and 10, the Algerian ambassador in Moscow held three meetings with senior Russian diplomats in an effort to counter Morocco's momentum. Algiers is relying on Moscow's support to mitigate its diplomatic losses and maintain its position. So far, Russia has not commented on the United States' reaffirmation of Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara on April 8. Moscow had previously criticized former President Donald Trump's recognition of Moroccan sovereignty on December 10, 2020.
Morocco World
09-04-2025
- Politics
- Morocco World
US Unchanged Western Sahara Position Further Angers Polisario Supporter Algeria
Rabat – Algeria's regime has responded to the US statement reaffirming its support for Morocco's territorial integrity and sovereignty over its southern provinces in Western Sahara. In a statement today, the Algerian Foreign Affairs Ministry lamented Washington's endorsement of the position that the Moroccan Autonomy Plan is the only realistic path to resolving the Sahara dispute. 'Algeria has taken note of the reaffirmation by the U.S. The Department of State views the autonomy plan under Moroccan sovereignty as the only solution to the Western Sahara conflict,' the statement said. A staunch and primary supporter of Polisario, Algeria said it 'regrets the confirmation of this position by a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, from whom respect for international legality in general and Security Council resolutions in particular is expected.' The remarks are not surprising given Algeria's well-documented hostility towards Morocco's territorial integrity. The North African country continues to support Polisario's separatist claims over Western Sahara, harboring the separatist group on Algerian soil and sponsoring its military and diplomatic maneuvers against Morocco's sovereignty on the Sahara. This Algerian response confirms observers' assessment that the State Department's emphatic embrace of the Moroccan Autonomy Plan constitutes yet another blow for Algeria and its separatist proxy in the Sahara dossier. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met on Tuesday with Moroccan Foreign Affairs Minister Nasser Bourita. He conveyed Washington's unchanged position vis-à-vis the Sahara dispute, pledging to further cement the long-standing bilateral relations between Morocco and the US. 'The Secretary reiterated that the United States recognizes Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara and supports Morocco's serious, credible, and realistic Autonomy Proposal as the only basis for a just and lasting solution to the dispute,' the State Department wrote. Rubio doubled down on the US support, noting that Trump has urged all parties to engage in discussions without delay, using Morocco's Autonomy initiative as 'the only framework to negotiate a mutually acceptable solution.' The US is determined to facilitate the negotiations toward this aim, Secretary Rubio stressed. In its response to America's renewed support for Morocco's territorial integrity , the Algerian regime claimed that the Sahara dispute is an 'unfinished decolonization process and an unfulfilled right to self-determination,' claiming that the separatist ground continues to 'hold the right to self-determination.' The US' latest statement on the Sahara shut down Algeria's denial on the Sahara dispute as it has been maneuvering to convince the Biden administration to backtrack on Washington's newfound embrace of the autonomy plan as the best way out of he long-standing Western Sahara stalemate. Since the US first announced its unequivocal support for Morocco's territorial integrity in December 2020, the Algerian regime has unrelentingly lobbied to reverse the decision. In addition to its denial, Algeria's regime continues to block the UN-led political process, rejecting its role as one of the main parties to the dispute. Tags: Algeria and the Western SaharaMorocco and Algeria and Western Sahara
Ya Biladi
09-04-2025
- Politics
- Ya Biladi
Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita meets Trump's Security Advisor
On Tuesday, April 8, in Washington, Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita met with Mike Waltz, Security Advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump. «The discussion focused on the multidimensional strategic partnership between Morocco and the United States, as well as regional issues of common interest», stated the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a press release. Morocco's Ambassador to the United States, Youssef Amrani, also praised the «in-depth discussion» between Nasser Bourita and Mike Waltz. «A strategic dialogue marked by a clear and mutual commitment to elevate the U.S.-Morocco longstanding partnership and alliance through deeper security cooperation, economic ties, and shared efforts for regional stability», he noted in a tweet. The Foreign Minister also met with his American counterpart, Marco Rubio, later on Tuesday in Washington. During their meeting, Rubio « reiterated that the United States recognizes Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara and supports Morocco's serious, credible, and realistic Autonomy Proposal as the only basis for a just and lasting solution to the dispute».
