Germany Reaffirms Support for Morocco's Autonomy Plan
In a significant diplomatic gesture, Germany has once again expressed its steadfast support for Morocco's Autonomy Plan, describing it as a "good basis and a very good foundation" for resolving the protracted dispute over the Sahara region.
The endorsement was articulated by German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock during a press conference following the inaugural session of bilateral dialogue between Germany and Morocco, held in Berlin. Leading the Moroccan delegation was Foreign Affairs Minister Nasser Bourita.
Baerbock underscored Germany's backing of the UN-led political process, which aims to secure a consensual political solution to the Sahara dispute. This renewed support marks a pivotal moment in Germany-Morocco relations, which have seen efforts to strengthen bilateral ties after a period of diplomatic estrangement in 2021.
The diplomatic tension reached a peak in May 2021 when Morocco recalled its ambassador from Germany. This move came two months after the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the suspension of all contacts with the German embassy in Rabat, citing Germany's "exacerbated hostile acts" against Moroccan interests, particularly its sovereignty over the southern provinces in Sahara.
However, recent developments signal a thaw in relations. The new German government has emphasized the importance of repairing bilateral ties with Morocco and expressed a desire to move beyond past disagreements and restore diplomatic relations.
A turning point came on December 13, 2021, when the German Foreign Ministry issued a communiqué supporting Morocco's contribution to the UN-led political process. The document highlighted the Moroccan Autonomy Plan as an "important contribution" to resolving the conflict.
This stance was warmly received in Rabat, leading to a mutual reaffirmation of commitment to enhance cooperation across various sectors, including renewable energy and security.
As Germany and Morocco navigate this renewed phase of diplomatic engagement, the affirmation of support for Morocco's Autonomy Plan underscores a shared vision for a peaceful and stable Sahara, rooted in international cooperation and mutual respect.