Korea supports Morocco’s autonomy plan for Sahara, isolating Algeria

Korea has officially endorsed Morocco’s autonomy proposal for Sahara, marking a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape and further isolating Algeria in its separatist endeavors. This endorsement, articulated in a comprehensive overview of bilateral relations, emphasizes Korea's support for Morocco's 2007 initiative as a credible path to resolving the long-standing territorial dispute.

The statement from Korea recognized the Moroccan autonomy proposal presented to the United Nations, highlighting the serious efforts made by Morocco to advance the resolution process. This declaration, echoing language from UN Security Council Resolution 1754, represents a substantial diplomatic victory for Rabat and poses a severe challenge to Algiers.

With Korea joining over 113 countries in backing Morocco's autonomy plan, Algeria's position continues to weaken. The growing international support for Morocco underscores the diminishing influence of Algeria on the global stage.

Strengthening bilateral ties

The endorsement coincides with an intensification of relations between Korea and Morocco. High-level exchanges have become more frequent, including visits from Korean officials such as National Assembly Speaker Kim Jin-pyo and Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Park Sang-woo. These interactions have solidified bilateral ties, evidenced by substantial investments from Korean companies like Samsung and LG, which have established successful operations in Morocco.

Furthermore, the recent €1.5 billion deal between Hyundai Rotem and Morocco’s National Railway Office to supply 110 trains exemplifies the expanding economic cooperation. In 2024, bilateral trade surged to approximately $550 million, and both nations are exploring an Economic Partnership Agreement to enhance trade relations further.

Korea's recognition of Moroccan veterans from the Korean War adds a historical dimension to their growing partnership. Agreements on climate cooperation and social security have also been established, reflecting a commitment to mutual development.

Algeria's diplomatic isolation

Meanwhile, Algeria's strategy concerning Sahara appears increasingly frail. Recent statements from UN Special Envoy Staffan de Mistura have dismissed Algeria's partition proposals, instead endorsing Morocco’s autonomy plan as "the only viable path." This endorsement is bolstered by the reaffirmation of US support for Morocco's sovereignty from Secretary of State Marco Rubio, following the previous recognition by the Trump administration.

France’s shift away from neutrality towards active support for Morocco further compounds Algeria's diplomatic challenges. Historically, France maintained a cautious stance but is now committed to mobilizing international backing for Morocco's autonomy initiative.

Algeria finds itself in a precarious position, particularly as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, where its influence is waning. Recent communications from Morocco's UN ambassador, Omar Hilale, have sharply criticized Algeria for its treatment of populations in the Tindouf camps and its refusal to allow UN oversight, further damaging Algeria's credibility.

A changing geopolitical landscape

In this evolving context, Algeria's diplomatic maneuvers have faltered significantly. Even traditional allies like Russia seem to be reassessing their positions, abstaining from votes on Sahara resolutions. As global dynamics shift, Algeria's once-reliable support appears increasingly tenuous.

As the situation develops, Morocco's autonomy plan gains momentum, with Korea's endorsement serving as a pivotal reinforcement of international support for its territorial integrity. The implications of this geopolitical shift will continue to unfold, highlighting the complexities of the region's diplomatic landscape.