UK supports Morocco’s autonomy plan for Sahara solution

Thursday 18 December 2025 - 16:50

By: Dakir Madiha

UK supports Morocco’s autonomy plan for Sahara solution

The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its support for the UN-led political process aimed at resolving the Sahara dispute, endorsing Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as the most credible and viable solution. Parliamentary Under-Secretary Hamish Falconer emphasized the UK’s position shift under the current government, aligning with over 120 countries that back the Moroccan initiative.

Falconer highlighted the UK’s role in the recent UN Security Council vote on Resolution 2797, which recognized Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as the foundation for future negotiations. The resolution, adopted on October 31, acknowledged widespread international support for the proposal, describing it as a realistic path toward a just and lasting resolution.

In response to a question from MP Andrew Murrison, a supporter of Morocco’s position, Falconer reiterated the UK’s commitment to advancing the political process and fostering stronger ties with Morocco. He noted the importance of sustaining progress in bilateral trade and security since the 2019 association agreement between the two nations.

The UK expressed confidence in UN Special Envoy Staffan de Mistura, who is working to bring an end to the long-standing dispute. Falconer stressed the need for regional unity in North Africa, urging progress in the coming months.

The UK’s recent stance builds on former Foreign Secretary David Lammy’s visit to Morocco in June. During his visit, Lammy described the Moroccan Autonomy Plan as the “most credible, viable, and pragmatic” framework for resolving the conflict. He reaffirmed the UK’s readiness to engage with the UN and the involved parties to achieve a resolution that promotes stability in North Africa and advances regional integration.

Resolution 2797 also emphasized Algeria's direct involvement in the dispute, urging it to participate in consultations with Morocco, Polisario, and other parties. Algeria’s continued refusal to accept its role as a main party in the conflict has posed challenges to the UN-led process. The UK, however, remains optimistic about achieving meaningful progress toward a mutually acceptable solution.