On Wednesday, November 4, 2026, King Mohammed VI chaired a working session at the Royal Palace in Rabat to discuss the post-MINURSO phase. The meeting was attended by key officials, including Prime Minister Fatima Zahra Mansouri, Royal Advisor Fouad Ali Himma, Interior Minister Abdelouafi Laftit, and Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces, General Mohamed Brika. The session focused on the implications of the UN Security Council's decision not to renew the mandate of the MINURSO mission.
During the meeting, King Mohammed VI emphasized the importance of respecting Morocco's territorial integrity, national security, and the well-being of its citizens, particularly in the Southern regions. He reiterated the kingdom's commitment to the ceasefire, which he described as a voluntary and unwavering commitment. The King also highlighted the need for cooperation with the UN and the importance of preserving the national consensus on the Western Sahara issue.
The King instructed the relevant authorities to ensure a smooth transition and withdrawal of the MINURSO mission. He tasked the Coordination Office with MINURSO, under the Interior Ministry, with overseeing the process and ensuring its organization. This move aims to facilitate the withdrawal of the mission and guarantee a seamless process.
King Mohammed VI also emphasized Morocco's commitment to its international obligations and its diplomatic efforts to maintain peace and contribute to its achievement. He noted the positive developments in the Western Sahara issue, including the recognition of Morocco's sovereignty by several friendly countries.
The working session took place in the context of the UN Security Council's decision not to renew the MINURSO mandate, which expired on October 30, 2026. The King had previously issued a statement reiterating Morocco's commitment to the ceasefire and the need for a peaceful resolution to the Western Sahara conflict.
The meeting was an opportunity for the King to reaffirm Morocco's commitment to the autonomy plan as a solution to the Western Sahara conflict. He emphasized the importance of preserving the national consensus and continuing the development projects in the Southern regions.
The post-MINURSO phase marks a new chapter in Morocco's relations with the UN and the international community. The King stressed the need for Morocco to continue its diplomatic efforts to resolve the Western Sahara conflict and to promote peace and stability in the region.
Key points
- Morocco's commitment to the ceasefire in Western Sahara remains unwavering.
- The King emphasizes the importance of cooperation with the UN in the post-MINURSO phase.
- Morocco continues to pursue its diplomatic efforts to resolve the Western Sahara conflict.