Young socialists and social democrats reaffirm support for Morocco’s territorial integrity

Sunday 04 May 2025 - 13:05

By: Zahouani Ilham

Young socialists and social democrats reaffirm support for Morocco’s territorial integrity

During its third session held in Marrakesh, the International Forum of Young Socialist and Social Democratic Parliamentarians affirmed its strong backing for the unity of the national territory of Morocco and its autonomy proposal, describing it as "the only foundation for a political resolution" to the regional dispute over the Moroccan Sahara.

Young socialist and social democratic parliamentarians from across the globe united in their belief that the solution to the Western Sahara issue should be based on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Morocco. They also expressed their unwavering support for the "Morocco Atlantic Initiative" led by King Mohammed VI. This initiative, which aims to foster cooperation among African nations and open access to the Atlantic for Sahel countries, is hailed as a "model for regional integration."

The forum participants emphasized the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in strengthening international relations and enhancing economic cooperation between the Global South nations. They advocated for expanded regional integration, especially between Africa and Latin America, in a spirit of solidarity and shared development that prioritizes sustainable progress in Southern countries.

The final statement called for the revision of the multilateral system to ensure fair global peace and reaffirmed the commitment of the young parliamentarians to upholding human rights, gender equality, and freedom of expression, opinion, and association.

The Forum also pledged to combat all forms of discrimination and oppression, defending the core values of democracy, solidarity, and social justice. Participants stressed the need to intensify efforts for global peace, security, and stability.

Additionally, the forum reiterated the importance of recognizing Palestine as a state, with East Jerusalem as its capital, as a critical step toward achieving a just and lasting peace.

In concluding remarks, Hassan Lachgar, coordinator of the Network of Young Socialist and Social Democratic Parliamentarians, highlighted the forum's success in facilitating a productive exchange of ideas and experiences, which could enhance political practices in participating nations. He also underscored the need to safeguard territorial integrity and sovereignty.

The forum, organized by the Socialist Group in the Moroccan Parliament in collaboration with the Federal Youth and the MENA Latina Forum, focused on key issues such as world peace, South-South parliamentary diplomacy, humanitarian crises, climate change, and human rights.