GCC reaffirms commitment to Morocco’s territorial integrity

Saturday 08 March 2025 - 08:33

By: Dakir Madiha

GCC reaffirms commitment to Morocco’s territorial integrity

In a significant reaffirmation of solidarity, Jassim Al Budaiwi, the Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), has reiterated the council's steadfast support for Morocco's territorial integrity and its sovereignty over the southern provinces of Sahara.

Al Budaiwi delivered these remarks during a joint ministerial meeting between GCC states and Morocco, where he emphasized the council's unwavering position in favor of Morocco's territorial claims. Representing Morocco at the meeting was Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita, who highlighted the importance of continued regional support.

The GCC also expressed its backing for the UN-led political process concerning Sahara, commending the UN Security Council Resolution 2756, adopted last October. This resolution extended the mandate of the UN peacekeeping operation MINURSO until October 2025 and called upon Algeria to engage constructively in the political process as a key player in the ongoing dispute.

Moreover, the resolution underscored the significance of earlier roundtable discussions initiated by former UN Personal Envoy Horst Kohler and acknowledged Morocco's Autonomy Plan as a credible political approach to resolving the Sahara issue.

In addition to its support for territorial integrity, the GCC welcomed Morocco’s proactive initiatives, including the Atlantic Sahel initiative aimed at providing Sahel countries with access to the Atlantic Ocean. The council also commended other projects such as the Atlantic African States Process and the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline, while praising Morocco's reforms across various sectors, particularly in the economy.

Morocco's strategic leadership and initiatives have positioned the country as a vital partner within the international community, especially among Gulf nations. Strong ties with states like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar have facilitated significant investments in Morocco’s real estate, infrastructure, and healthcare sectors.