The UK has made a significant move in the long-standing dispute over Western Sahara, backing Morocco’s autonomy plan for the disputed territory.
UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced the support during a visit to Rabat, calling Morocco’s proposal “the most credible, viable and pragmatic basis for a lasting resolution of the dispute”.
This development comes as part of a broader agreement to boost economic ties between the two nations, particularly in critical infrastructure projects for the 2030 men’s football World Cup, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal.
The plan would grant Western Sahara autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty, a move that has drawn mixed reactions.
Algeria, which supports the Western Saharan independence movement, has expressed regret over Lammy’s announcement, stating that Morocco’s autonomy plan is outdated and has never been submitted to the Sahrawis as a basis for negotiation.
In contrast, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita hailed the UK’s decision as an historic moment in the 800-year-old relationship between the two nations, marking a genuine pivot toward resolving the dispute.
The agreement between the UK and Morocco also includes a procurement deal that will enable British businesses to access public tenders in Morocco, with potential contracts in the health sector and infrastructure upgrades, such as Casablanca’s airport. Both countries have reaffirmed their commitment to the principle of self-determination and the non-use of force in conflict resolution.
This move aligns the UK with other countries, including the US, France, and Spain, which have also backed Morocco’s position.
