The United Kingdom has officially expressed its full support for Morocco’s 2007 autonomy plan as the most credible, realistic, and pragmatic basis for a lasting resolution to the regional dispute over the Moroccan Sahara.
This position was outlined in a joint statement signed in Rabat by UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, David Lammy, and Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, following formal discussions between the two officials.
The statement emphasized that “the United Kingdom is closely following the current positive momentum under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI,” adding that London “recognizes the importance of the Sahara issue to Morocco and believes resolving this dispute would contribute to regional stability in North Africa and foster greater integration.”
Economic and Investment Support for the Moroccan Sahara
The statement also noted that “UK Export Finance may consider supporting projects in the Moroccan Sahara” as part of its broader commitment to mobilize up to £5 billion to fund new development projects across the Kingdom of Morocco.
The UK further reaffirmed Morocco’s strategic role as a key partner and gateway to socio-economic development across the African continent, and renewed its commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation in various sectors.
Support for the UN Process and the Secretary-General’s Envoy
Both sides praised the central role of the UN-led political process and reiterated their support for the efforts of the Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for the Sahara, Mr. Staffan de Mistura. The UK affirmed its readiness to provide “active support and strong engagement” in backing the UN-led efforts.
In conclusion, the United Kingdom — as a permanent member of the UN Security Council — emphasized its shared view with Morocco on “the urgent need for a resolution to this long-standing conflict,” stressing that the time has come to move forward toward a final and mutually acceptable solution that serves the interests of all parties and promotes regional stability.
This renewed British stance adds to the growing international momentum, led by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, in support of Morocco’s autonomy initiative under its sovereignty. It reaffirms the credibility of the Moroccan proposal as a realistic, practical, and consensual solution to the Sahara dispute.
