On November 4, 2026, King Mohammed VI of Morocco chaired a working session at the Royal Palace in Rabat to discuss the post-expiration phase of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO). The session followed the UN Security Council's decision on October 30, 2026, not to renew MINURSO's mandate. The King evaluated MINURSO's performance, highlighting its inability to monitor ceasefire violations and address their consequences.
King Mohammed VI stated that MINURSO had failed on multiple occasions to monitor respect for the ceasefire and arrange for the legal and practical implications of its violations. He emphasized that the context of MINURSO's creation and its original functions had been overtaken by events, as confirmed by field realities and international stakeholders' positions. This assessment reflects Morocco's stance on the matter.
In light of MINURSO's expiration, the King issued instructions to firmly and vigilantly implement national priorities. These priorities include the full respect for Morocco's territorial integrity, national unity, and security, as well as the safety of its citizens, particularly in the southern regions. The goal is to reinforce national consensus and ensure the continuation of the development project for the southern regions and its structuring projects.
The King reaffirmed Morocco's commitment to the ceasefire, which he described as voluntary and constant. He stressed that this commitment would not change with the end of MINURSO's mandate and its withdrawal. Morocco will continue to monitor developments in the national issue at all levels, in line with its official position, independent of MINURSO's presence or absence.
The working session aimed to address the implications of MINURSO's expiration and outline the next steps for Morocco. The King's instructions underscore the country's determination to protect its national interests and ensure stability in the region. The development project for the southern regions remains a key priority.
Morocco's position on the Western Sahara issue remains unchanged, with the country committed to finding a solution that respects its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The King's address reflects Morocco's proactive approach to managing the situation following MINURSO's withdrawal.
The expiration of MINURSO's mandate marks a new phase in the Western Sahara issue, with Morocco set to continue its engagement on the international stage. The country's priorities focus on national unity, security, and development, with a commitment to protecting its interests and citizens.
Key points
- Morocco's King Mohammed VI stresses national priorities following MINURSO's expiration
- The King emphasizes Morocco's commitment to the ceasefire and territorial integrity
- Morocco to continue monitoring developments in the Western Sahara issue
