U.S. Reaffirms Support for Morocco's Autonomy Initiative in Moroccan Sahara

Friday 22 November 2024 - 15:05

The United States has reaffirmed its strong support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative as a serious, credible, and realistic solution to the ongoing Moroccan Sahara conflict. This declaration was made by U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, Barbara Leaf, during her visit to Rabat on Friday.

Speaking at a press conference following her meeting with Morocco's Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Living Abroad, Nasser Bourita, Leaf emphasized Washington's unwavering commitment to Morocco’s proposed autonomy plan for Moroccan Sahara. The U.S. continues to view this initiative as the most viable pathway to a resolution of the decades-long dispute.

In addition to reiterating support for Morocco's autonomy plan, Leaf also conveyed the U.S. government's ongoing backing for the efforts of the United Nations. She specifically highlighted the work of Staffan de Mistura, the Personal Envoy of the U.N. Secretary-General for Moroccan Sahara, as he seeks to advance negotiations aimed at finding a mutually acceptable political solution. Washington remains dedicated to supporting de Mistura’s diplomatic efforts, underlining the importance of continued dialogue and collaboration to bring about a lasting resolution to the issue.

This reaffirmation of U.S. support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative comes at a time when international efforts to resolve the Moroccan Sahara conflict remain ongoing. The U.S. has consistently advocated for a peaceful, negotiated settlement, and its backing of Morocco’s autonomy proposal marks a significant endorsement of a solution that respects both the territorial integrity of Morocco and the aspirations of the Sahrawi people.

As diplomatic engagement continues, the U.S. stance signals its confidence in the Moroccan initiative as the best framework for achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.