On November 4, 2026, King Mohammed VI of Morocco presided over a working session at the Royal Palace in Rabat to discuss the country's strategy following the expiration of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO). The session was attended by senior officials, including the Head of Government, Fatima Zahra Mansouri, and Interior Minister, Abdelouafi Laftit. The meeting focused on the post-MINURSO phase, emphasizing the protection of Morocco's territorial integrity and national security.
During the session, King Mohammed VI reiterated his commitment to upholding Morocco's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He instructed the relevant authorities to ensure the continuation of development projects in the southern regions and to coordinate the withdrawal of the MINURSO mission. The King also emphasized the importance of maintaining national consensus and guaranteeing the continuation of the development project in the southern regions.
The working session took place after the UN Security Council failed to renew MINURSO's mandate on October 30, 2026. The King has demonstrated his dedication to the issue of territorial integrity and national sovereignty. The session's discussions reflected the King's vision for the post-MINURSO phase, focusing on development, security, and international cooperation.
King Mohammed VI issued instructions to assign the coordination and follow-up of the MINURSO mission's withdrawal to the Ministry of Interior's Coordination Office with MINURSO. The office will oversee the process, ensuring a smooth and organized withdrawal. This move demonstrates Morocco's commitment to managing the transition effectively and cooperating with the United Nations.
The King reaffirmed Morocco's commitment to its international obligations and its dedication to peace and stability. He also highlighted the progress made in the national issue, including the recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over its Sahara by friendly and brotherly countries. The King's instructions emphasized the need to continue national mobilization to protect territorial integrity and national security.
The post-MINURSO phase will witness the continuation of development projects in the southern regions, with a focus on implementing structuring projects. The relevant institutions will oversee the withdrawal of the MINURSO mission, while Morocco remains committed to the ceasefire and its international obligations. The King's vision for the post-MINURSO phase prioritizes development, security, and cooperation.
As Morocco navigates the post-MINURSO phase, the country is expected to maintain its commitment to peace and stability while upholding its national sovereignty. The King's leadership and vision will guide Morocco's approach to the issue, with a focus on development, cooperation, and international partnerships. The country's future in the region will depend on its ability to balance its national interests with its international obligations.
Key points
- Morocco's King Mohammed VI has outlined the country's approach to the post-MINURSO phase, emphasizing development, security, and international cooperation.
- The King has instructed the Ministry of Interior to coordinate the withdrawal of the MINURSO mission, ensuring a smooth transition.
- Morocco remains committed to its international obligations, including the ceasefire, while upholding its national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
