On November 4, 2026, King Mohammed VI of Morocco presided over a working session at the Royal Palace in Rabat to discuss the post-MINURSO era. The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Prime Minister Fatima Zahra Mansouri, Minister of Interior Abdelouafi Laftit, and General Mohamed Brika, Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces. The session focused on the implications of the UN Security Council's decision not to renew the mandate of the MINURSO mission, which expired on October 30, 2026.
The King emphasized the importance of upholding Morocco's territorial integrity, national security, and the well-being of its citizens, particularly in the southern regions. He reiterated the priorities outlined in a royal statement on October 30, which included respect for Morocco's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The King also instructed officials to implement these priorities in their respective areas of expertise, ensuring the continuation of the development project for the southern regions.
During the meeting, King Mohammed VI gave instructions to activate the necessary measures to ensure a smooth transition following the end of the MINURSO mission. He tasked the Ministry of Interior's Coordination Office with MINURSO to oversee the withdrawal process, facilitating the necessary procedures and ensuring an organized and seamless operation. This move demonstrates Morocco's commitment to cooperating with the UN while protecting its national interests.
The King also stressed Morocco's commitment to its international obligations and its diplomatic tradition of promoting peace and stability. He highlighted the significant progress made on the national issue, including the recognition by friendly and sister countries of Morocco's sovereignty over the Sahara region. The King emphasized that the autonomy initiative is the only viable solution to resolve the regional conflict.
The working session was held in the context of Morocco's ongoing efforts to address the situation following the end of the MINURSO mission. The UN Security Council's decision not to renew the mission's mandate reflects the changing circumstances on the ground and the need for a new approach to address the regional conflict. Morocco remains committed to finding a peaceful solution to the issue.
The King's instructions aim to ensure a coordinated and effective approach to managing the post-MINURSO era. By emphasizing the importance of national security, territorial integrity, and development, the King demonstrated his commitment to protecting Morocco's interests while promoting peace and stability in the region. The meeting's outcomes will likely shape Morocco's strategy in the coming months.
As Morocco navigates this new phase, it will likely continue to engage with the international community to promote a peaceful resolution to the regional conflict. The King's emphasis on Morocco's diplomatic tradition and commitment to peace and stability underscores the country's efforts to find a lasting solution to the issue. The situation remains a key challenge for Morocco and the international community.
Key points
- Morocco's King Mohammed VI has instructed officials to implement measures to ensure a smooth transition following the end of the MINURSO mission.
- The King emphasized the importance of upholding Morocco's territorial integrity, national security, and the well-being of its citizens.
- Morocco remains committed to finding a peaceful solution to the regional conflict, promoting its autonomy initiative as the only viable solution.
