China reaffirms its “consistent” stance on the Moroccan Sahara

Thursday 30 October 2025 - 11:00

By: Sahili Aya

China reaffirms its “consistent” stance on the Moroccan Sahara

On the eve of a key United Nations Security Council vote on a new resolution concerning the Moroccan Sahara, China has reaffirmed its “consistent position” in favor of a political process and a mutually acceptable solution among all parties involved.

According to Chinese media, Foreign Minister Wang Yi made this statement during a phone conversation with his Algerian counterpart, Ahmed Attaf. After listening to the Algerian position, Wang reiterated that “a political solution remains the fundamental path to resolving this issue,” emphasizing that the United Nations framework and relevant Security Council resolutions constitute the essential basis for negotiation.

He further underlined that “dialogue and consultation are the right way forward,” expressing China’s hope that “all concerned parties will intensify their exchanges to reach a fair, just, and acceptable outcome.”

Observers view Beijing’s stance as disappointing for Algeria and the Polisario Front, given its neutral tone and alignment with the UN-led process. Algeria’s Foreign Ministry issued a brief statement merely noting that the ministers discussed “various issues, including the Sahara,” without elaborating.

While China has not explicitly endorsed Morocco’s autonomy initiative, it has repeatedly defended the principle of sovereignty and territorial integrity — a key pillar of its foreign policy, especially regarding Taiwan.

The UN Security Council is expected to meet on Thursday to vote on a new resolution extending the mandate of the MINURSO for one more year. Leaked details of the U.S.-drafted text, submitted on October 22, suggest the resolution will encourage “unconditional negotiations” between Morocco, Algeria, the Polisario Front, and Mauritania, based on the Moroccan autonomy plan as the most credible and realistic option within Moroccan sovereignty.

The draft also calls for periodic reports by the UN Secretary-General on the mission’s evolution and warns against military escalation that could threaten regional stability.