Belgium Reaffirms Endorsement of Morocco's Sahara Autonomy Plan

Monday 15 April 2024 - 15:48

Belgium has reiterated its support for Morocco's autonomy initiative, first introduced in 2007, characterizing it as "a substantive and credible endeavor by Morocco and a promising framework for a solution agreeable to all parties." This stance was articulated in a joint declaration ratified during the 3rd session of the High Joint Commission of the Morocco-Belgium Partnership, co-led by Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch and Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo in Rabat.

During the meeting, Prime Minister De Croo reiterated "Belgium's longstanding commitment to the United Nations-led diplomatic process aimed at achieving a fair, enduring, and mutually acceptable resolution for all parties," as outlined in the declaration.

The two parties also affirmed "the exclusive role of the United Nations in the diplomatic process and reiterated their backing for UN Security Council Resolution 2703 (2023), which highlighted the responsibility of the involved parties in pursuing a pragmatic, sustainable, and compromise-oriented political settlement," the statement elaborated.

The Moroccan autonomy plan, introduced in 2007, has garnered international recognition as a substantive and credible attempt to address the protracted dispute concerning the Sahara region. Belgium's steadfast support for this plan, coupled with its endorsement of the United Nations-led process, underscores the nation's unwavering stance in favor of a diplomatic resolution that upholds Morocco's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

By reiterating its backing for Morocco's autonomy proposal and emphasizing the pivotal role of the United Nations in the diplomatic process, Belgium has demonstrated its diplomatic acumen and dedication to nurturing stability and collaboration in North Africa. This position is likely to be embraced by Moroccan authorities and could further solidify the bilateral relations between the two nations