The United States has reiterated its support for Morocco's sovereignty over the Western Sahara region, emphasizing its commitment to developing the area. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau made these remarks in New York, following talks with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita on the sidelines of the 81st UN General Assembly. Landau highlighted the long-standing friendship between the US and Morocco, as well as their shared vision for the region's development.
The dispute over Western Sahara has been ongoing for over 50 years, with Landau arguing that the current status quo is unsustainable. He expressed the US's eagerness to work with Morocco and other parties to resolve the conflict. The US has reaffirmed its support for Morocco's sovereignty over the region, with Landau confirming that Washington recognizes Morocco's sovereignty over the Sahara. This stance was reaffirmed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio in April 2025.
Landau's comments followed a meeting between Bourita and Massad Boulos, President Donald Trump's special adviser for Arab and African affairs. Boulos described the discussion as important, highlighting the long-standing partnership between the US and Morocco, as well as their shared regional priorities. The meetings took place as the UN Security Council prepares to review the MINURSO mandate, which is set to expire on October 31.
The US's position on Western Sahara was established in December 2020, when Trump recognized Moroccan sovereignty over the entire territory and backed the 2007 Autonomy Plan as the basis for a settlement. This stance was reinforced by Security Council Resolution 2797, adopted on October 31, 2025, which instructed the political process to proceed based on Morocco's Autonomy Proposal. The resolution passed with 11 votes in favor, none against, and three abstentions.
Morocco has been investing heavily in its southern provinces, including the launch of its New Development Model in 2015, which included an initial MAD 77 billion ($7.7 billion) in funding. The country has also selected investors for six green hydrogen projects worth a projected MAD 319 billion ($31.9 billion). The Dakhla Atlantic Port, the Tiznit-Dakhla expressway, desalination, and renewable energy projects are also underway.
The Polisario Front and its Algerian sponsors continue to demand a separatist solution, which the international community has largely abandoned. Both parties rejected Resolution 2797, further isolating themselves from the diplomatic process. The momentum on sovereignty, investment, and international recognition appears to be moving against them.
Landau also encouraged American firms to invest in Morocco, including the Sahara region, during a visit in September 2025. The US and Morocco have strengthened their cooperation, with the 1,055-kilometer expressway recently named the "Donald J. Trump Highway" by royal decision. Trump publicly thanked King Mohammed VI on July 26, calling it a "Great Honor."
Key points
- The US has reaffirmed its commitment to developing the Western Sahara region under Moroccan sovereignty.
- The dispute over Western Sahara has been ongoing for over 50 years, with the US and Morocco seeking a resolution.
- Morocco has been investing heavily in its southern provinces, including infrastructure and renewable energy projects.
