EU's Support for Morocco's Autonomy Proposal
The European Union (EU) has officially expressed its backing for Morocco's autonomy proposal regarding Western Sahara, proclaiming it as the most viable solution to a protracted dispute during a significant diplomatic visit to Rabat. Kaja Kallas, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, communicated this stance during her discussions with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita on April 16. The joint statement released the following day emphasized the EU's dedication to the United Nations-led dialogue driven by the framework established in UN Security Council Resolution 2797 (2025). The EU's commitment focuses on facilitating a political resolution that is just, enduring, and acceptable to all parties involved.
In the statement, it was noted that future negotiations should be anchored in Morocco's autonomy proposal, encouraging all stakeholders to participate without any preconditions. The EU reiterated its unwavering support for the UN Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy in their efforts to advance the dialogue process. Furthermore, the communiqué highlighted the EU's recognition that genuine autonomy could indeed represent a feasible resolution to the issue at hand and welcomed Morocco's readiness to engage with other stakeholders to delineate the autonomy's terms and structure within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty.
Strengthening EU-Morocco Relations
The discussions surrounding the Western Sahara situation were part of a broader dialogue addressing various regional and international issues, including the conflicts in Iran and Gaza, the situation in Ukraine, and security challenges in the Sahel. Beyond the specific dispute, both the EU and Morocco underscored the depth and strategic significance of their relationship, describing it as enduring and multifaceted, built on mutual trust. They reaffirmed their commitment to fully implement the EU-Morocco Association Agreement and expressed a desire to sustain the momentum in their bilateral relations, including efforts to finalize a Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership aimed at enhancing cooperation.
Both parties also agreed to revitalize institutional frameworks under the existing agreement and to conduct political consultations and a security dialogue later this year to bolster coordination. They emphasized shared priorities such as the promotion of human rights, international security, stability, and crisis management. Additionally, discussions encompassed regional security frameworks, including the Pact for the Mediterranean and EU-Africa relations. Preparations for the upcoming EU-Med Regional Security Forum were welcomed, which will tackle pressing issues such as counterterrorism, maritime security, and cyber resilience. The statement reiterated the EU's support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity while advocating for a comprehensive and lasting peace in accordance with international law. This visit highlights the EU's continued engagement with Morocco on critical geopolitical matters while reinforcing its support for an autonomy-based solution within the UN framework for Western Sahara.
As reported by tbsnews.net.
