In a significant diplomatic development, Peruvian Foreign Minister Carlos Espa I Garcés Alviar expressed his country's support for Morocco's territorial integrity and sovereignty over the Sahara region during a meeting with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita in New York. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. This move is seen as a strengthening of bilateral ties between the two nations.
According to a joint statement released after the meeting, Peru explicitly endorsed Morocco's autonomy initiative for the Sahara region, describing it as a "political, just, lasting, and acceptable solution for all parties." This endorsement aligns with the Peruvian government's commitment to supporting peaceful and negotiated solutions to regional conflicts. The joint statement also highlighted the importance of the UN Security Council's Resolution 2797, adopted in October 2025.
The Peruvian government has announced plans to open a consulate in Dakhla, a city in the Sahara region, as a strategic move to enhance its access to African markets. This diplomatic mission is expected to serve as a platform for Peruvian products to enter the African market, thereby boosting trade and economic cooperation between Peru and Morocco. The decision to establish a consulate in Dakhla reflects Peru's growing interest in strengthening its presence in Africa.
The move has been welcomed by Morocco, which has long sought international recognition of its sovereignty over the Sahara region. The region has been a subject of dispute for several decades, with Morocco claiming sovereignty and the Polisario Front seeking independence. The international community, including the United Nations, has been engaged in efforts to find a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict.
Peru's decision to open a consulate in Dakhla and its endorsement of Morocco's autonomy initiative are seen as significant diplomatic wins for Morocco. The development is expected to further strengthen Morocco's international standing on the Sahara issue and reinforce its relations with Peru. This move also underscores the growing importance of South-South cooperation, as countries from different regions seek to strengthen economic and diplomatic ties.
The joint statement released after the meeting between the two foreign ministers emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation and the need to promote peace and stability in the region. The statement also highlighted the commitment of both countries to upholding the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. This convergence of views on key regional issues is expected to pave the way for enhanced cooperation between Morocco and Peru.
The opening of the Peruvian consulate in Dakhla is also expected to have a positive impact on economic relations between Morocco and Peru. The two countries have been exploring opportunities to enhance trade and investment, particularly in areas such as agriculture, mining, and renewable energy. With the establishment of the consulate, businesses from both countries are expected to have greater access to new markets and opportunities.
Key points
- Peru has decided to open a consulate in Dakhla, Morocco, in a move that underscores its support for Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara region.
