In a major diplomatic shift, French President Emmanuel Macron has officially recognized Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara, aligning France with countries like the United States and Spain on this contentious issue. In a letter to King Mohammed VI of Morocco, Macron stated that France considers ‘the present and future of Western Sahara to be within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty’.Macron emphasized that the autonomy plan proposed by Morocco in 2007 is now ‘the only basis for achieving a just, durable, and negotiated solution in accordance with the United Nations Security Council resolutions’. This marks a significant departure from France’s previous neutral stance on the conflict, which has been ongoing for nearly 50 years.The French President also expressed France’s commitment to supporting Morocco’s efforts to develop the economy and society in Western Sahara. Macron stated that France intends to act in accordance with this position both nationally and internationally.Morocco has welcomed this move as a ‘significant and crucial step’ in supporting its sovereignty over Western Sahara. However, the decision has been met with strong opposition from Algeria, which supports the Polisario Front’s demand for a self-determination referendum. Algeria’s Foreign Ministry has condemned the French decision, warning that it goes against the ‘highest interest’ of peace, security, and stability in the region.This diplomatic shift is seen as a major victory for Morocco’s royal diplomacy, led by King Mohammed VI. It also has potential implications for trade relations, as Morocco aims to deepen economic ties with countries supporting its position.The Western Sahara conflict, which began in 1975 after Spain’s withdrawal from the region, has been a long-standing issue in North African politics. The territory, rich in fish and phosphate reserves, is considered by the UN as a ‘non-autonomous territory’. With France’s new stance, the international dynamics surrounding this dispute are likely to shift, potentially influencing future negotiations and the overall peace process in the region.
Key points
- France officially recognizes Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara, marking a significant shift in its diplomatic stance.
- Macron states that Morocco’s 2007 autonomy plan is the only basis for resolving the Western Sahara conflict.
- Algeria strongly condemns France’s decision, warning of potential consequences for regional stability.
- This diplomatic shift is seen as a major victory for Morocco’s foreign policy.
Contradictions👾While most sources report France’s recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara as a new development, some suggest that France has been supporting Morocco’s autonomy plan since 2007.
This contradiction may stem from the difference between supporting an autonomy plan and fully recognizing sovereignty.
