Moroccan Government Spokesperson Samir Belfaqih hailed a royal decree issued on October 30 as a historic milestone in the country's efforts to resolve the Western Sahara issue. The decree paves the way for Morocco to move forward with its development plans for the southern regions, while also strengthening its diplomatic efforts to gain international recognition of its sovereignty over the territory. Belfaqih emphasized the government's commitment to defending Morocco's unity and territorial integrity.
The royal decree announced the end of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO), which had been in place for over 35 years. Belfaqih noted that this move marked a significant shift in the international community's approach to the issue, as it recognized Morocco's sovereignty over the territory and the autonomy initiative as the basis for a negotiated solution. He also highlighted the importance of the US recognition of Moroccan sovereignty in 2020 and the adoption of UN Resolution 2797 in October 2025.
Belfaqih emphasized that the government's efforts to resolve the Western Sahara issue are guided by King Mohammed VI's strategic vision, which combines firmness in defending Morocco's territorial integrity with openness to a negotiated solution that takes into account the interests of all parties. He also noted that the government will continue to work towards accelerating the development of the southern regions, in line with the king's directives.
The spokesperson highlighted the significance of the recent UN Security Council vote, in which 11 members supported a US-drafted resolution backing Morocco's autonomy initiative, while one member vetoed the resolution. Belfaqih described this outcome as a reflection of the growing international support for Morocco's position on the Western Sahara issue.
Belfaqih also emphasized the importance of Morocco's diplomatic efforts in gaining international recognition of its sovereignty over the Western Sahara. He noted that the government will continue to work towards strengthening its international partnerships and securing support for its position on the issue.
The government's efforts to resolve the Western Sahara issue are also focused on promoting economic development and social progress in the southern regions. Belfaqih highlighted the importance of implementing the king's vision for the development of the region, which includes investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
The resolution of the Western Sahara issue is expected to have significant implications for Morocco's relations with its international partners and its economic development. Belfaqih concluded by emphasizing the government's commitment to defending Morocco's sovereignty and territorial integrity, while also working towards a negotiated solution that takes into account the interests of all parties.
Key points
- The Moroccan government welcomes the royal decree as a historic milestone in resolving the Western Sahara issue.
- The decree paves the way for Morocco to move forward with its development plans for the southern regions.
- The government will continue to work towards accelerating the development of the southern regions, in line with the king's directives.
