Ecuador Endorses Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for Sahara

Tuesday 03 December 2024 - 11:16

By: Dakir Madiha

Ecuador Endorses Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for Sahara

Ecuador, a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the 2023-2024 term, has reaffirmed the importance of Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for Sahara. This declaration was made by Ecuadorian Minister of Foreign Affairs Gabriela Sommerfeld during a video conference with her Moroccan counterpart, Nasser Bourita.

In the meeting, Sommerfeld emphasized Ecuador's decision to suspend its recognition of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), the self-declared government of the Polisario Front, aligning the country’s position with universal principles of respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non-interference in the domestic affairs of other nations. Ecuador’s stance, she explained, supports the ongoing UN-led political process aimed at finding a mutually acceptable solution to the dispute over Sahara.

The final statement from the meeting underlined Ecuador's support for Morocco’s autonomy proposal, which aims to resolve the conflict through realistic and peaceful means. This position is shared by the majority of UN member states, which view Morocco’s plan as a credible compromise to end the regional conflict. The two countries also agreed to further enhance bilateral relations, with an emphasis on South-South cooperation, peace, and development initiatives on the international stage.

This diplomatic shift marks a significant step in Morocco's growing momentum on the international stage, as Ecuador joins a rising number of countries in suspending recognition of the SADR. In October 2024, Ecuador formally withdrew its recognition of the separatist group, following a similar move by Panama. This is part of a broader trend in which countries increasingly recognize Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces, viewing its Autonomy Plan as a practical solution.

During the meeting, both ministers signed a framework memorandum of understanding aimed at boosting cooperation between their countries. The agreement also included an arrangement to eliminate visa requirements for holders of diplomatic and service passports. These steps reflect the strengthening of ties between Morocco and Ecuador, marking a new chapter in their diplomatic relations.

As more nations recognize Morocco’s territorial integrity, the Autonomy Plan continues to gain traction. Over 100 countries, including major powers such as France and the United States, have expressed support for the initiative. Morocco’s efforts to resolve the Sahara issue through a peaceful, mutually agreed-upon solution are gaining increasing international recognition and support.

This move also follows recent developments in Panama, which in November 2024 announced its decision to suspend ties with the SADR. Panama’s foreign policy, focusing on multilateral cooperation and peace, highlights the global trend toward a more balanced approach to the Sahara dispute. In response, King Mohammed VI of Morocco expressed his appreciation for Panama's stance, reinforcing the growing diplomatic momentum in favor of Morocco’s position.