Morocco gains diplomatic support for Sahara sovereignty at UN

During the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, several nations reaffirmed or shifted their diplomatic stances regarding the Western Sahara dispute.

Guinea-Bissau has officially renewed its support for Morocco’s territorial integrity and sovereignty over the Sahara. Foreign Minister Fatumata Jau described the position as “clear, constant and without ambiguity,” reiterating support for Morocco’s autonomy plan as the sole solution to the regional dispute and noting the 2020 opening of a consulate general in Dakhla.

In a notable diplomatic shift, Mauritius has changed its position on the matter. Mauritian Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful stated that autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty is “the most credible solution” and “the most realistic, just, and sustainable solution” to the dispute, following the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2797.

Additionally, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita engaged in high-level meetings to promote multilateralism and preventive diplomacy. He emphasized the importance of the Alliance of Civilizations in fostering dialogue and called for a transition from dialogue to concrete action in the 2027-2031 action plan. Bourita also highlighted Morocco’s vision for the Sahel, focusing on security, development, and the Royal Initiative to provide Sahelian countries with access to the Atlantic Ocean.