Follow us on Facebook

Walaw

Politics

Spain's Unwavering Support for Morocco's Sahara Plan Rattles Polisario and Algeria

Saturday 28 September 2024 - 12:15 Journalists: Dakir Madiha

Zoom

Spain's resolute backing of Morocco's autonomy initiative for Sahara continues to send shockwaves through the Polisario Front and Algeria, as Madrid stands firm in its pragmatic approach to resolving the long-standing territorial dispute. This stance, first adopted in March 2022, has positioned Spain as a key player in shaping the future of the region.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez reaffirmed Spain's commitment to Morocco's proposal during his address at the United Nations General Assembly this week. He emphasized Madrid's support for the UN-led political process, advocating for a solution that is both politically feasible and mutually acceptable to all parties involved.

This declaration dealt another blow to the Polisario Front and its primary supporter, Algeria, who have been tirelessly lobbying various Spanish factions to endorse their separatist claims over Sahara. Despite garnering support from several Spanish political parties for self-determination, many analysts argue that Madrid has effectively sidelined the option of an independence referendum, deeming it unrealistic and politically unsound.

Instead, Spain now views Morocco's Autonomy Plan, submitted to the UN Security Council in 2007, as the most viable path toward resolving the dispute. The Spanish government has praised the initiative for its seriousness, credibility, and pragmatic approach to ending the protracted conflict.

The impact of Spain's stance extends beyond its borders, as other nations follow suit in supporting Morocco's position. Denmark recently joined the growing list of European Union countries that recognize the Moroccan autonomy initiative as the best available foundation for resolving the territorial dispute. This announcement came during a meeting between Danish representatives and Morocco's Foreign Affairs Minister Nasser Bourita at the 79th session of the UN General Assembly.

The Netherlands has also reiterated its support for Morocco's proposal. Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp described the 2007 autonomy plan as "a very serious and credible contribution to the political process aimed at resolving the conflict over the Sahara." Veldkamp underscored the Netherlands' backing of the UN-led political process, emphasizing that any resolution must be just, lasting, and mutually acceptable.

As more countries align with Morocco's vision for Sahara, the Polisario Front and Algeria find themselves increasingly isolated on the international stage. This shift in diplomatic dynamics suggests a potential turning point in the decades-long dispute, with Morocco's autonomy plan gaining traction as a pragmatic solution to a complex regional issue.

The growing international support for Morocco's approach to Sahara reflects a broader recognition of the need for realistic, compromise-based solutions to longstanding territorial conflicts. As Spain maintains its firm stance and other nations follow suit, the prospect of a negotiated settlement to the Sahara dispute appears increasingly within reach.