Netherlands' Position on Sahara Conflict
On April 7, in Rabat, the Dutch Foreign Minister, Tom Berendsen, made a significant declaration regarding the long-standing regional conflict surrounding the Sahara. He stated that his country views "genuine autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty as the most realistic solution" to this pressing issue. This unequivocal statement was made during a joint press conference following discussions with his Moroccan counterpart, Nasser Bourita, who serves as the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Living Abroad. The Dutch stance was further reinforced through an official joint statement released during Berendsen's working visit to Morocco on April 7 and 8. This politically significant document marks a substantial evolution of The Hague's support for the autonomy plan proposed by Morocco in 2007, now regarded as the most credible basis for a resolution to the deadlock.
Strengthened Support for UN Processes and Implementation
Beyond acknowledging the autonomy plan, Berendsen reaffirmed the unwavering support of the Netherlands for United Nations Security Council Resolution 2797, which emphasizes the serious and credible nature of Morocco's initiative. He also praised the efforts of the UN Secretary-General's personal envoy, Staffan de Mistura, who is tasked with facilitating negotiations based on Morocco's proposed autonomy plan, aiming for a fair, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution. This language directly echoes the wording of the United Nations while simultaneously enhancing it through explicit bilateral agreement.
The joint statement further specifies that the Netherlands will act "in accordance with its position" in diplomatic and economic matters, all while respecting international law. This operational clause is particularly noteworthy, suggesting that The Hague intends to translate its political stance into concrete actions, whether in multilateral forums, bilateral relations with other nations, or in investments and economic exchanges with Morocco's southern provinces. Moreover, the Netherlands' statement aligns with a growing international momentum that increasingly favors Morocco's sovereignty over the Sahara. Over the past several years, numerous European, African, Arab, and American countries have either opened consulates in Laayoune or Dakhla or explicitly referred to the autonomy plan as "serious and credible." As a founding member of the European Union and a historical diplomatic player, the Netherlands joins this movement but stands out with its emphasis on the term "genuine autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty." During their meeting, Bourita and Berendsen also discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation across various sectors, as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest.
This working visit, which lasts until April 8, underscores the commitment of both kingdoms – Morocco and the Netherlands – to solidify a political partnership based on mutual respect and a shared vision of regional stability.
As reported by pressnetwork.de.
