Bourita and De Mistura in Rabat: Towards a Clarification of the Moroccan Sahara Issue

Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita met on Monday in Rabat with the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for the Moroccan Sahara, Staffan de Mistura. This meeting is part of the UN diplomat’s regional tour, just days before the informal consultations of the UN Security Council scheduled for mid-April 2025. Morocco’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Omar Hilale, also attended the meeting.

During the meeting, the Moroccan delegation highlighted the international momentum in favor of the Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara, driven by King Mohammed VI. In his speech on November 6, 2024, marking the 49th anniversary of the Green March, the Sovereign called on the United Nations to clarify the difference between the reality on the ground and certain outdated perspectives that persist regarding the Sahara issue.

In this context, Morocco reiterated its commitment to a realistic and lasting political solution based on its autonomy initiative under its sovereignty. The Moroccan delegation emphasized that this approach is the only viable framework to resolve the regional dispute, in accordance with international law and UN Security Council resolutions.

Furthermore, Rabat reaffirmed its support for the efforts of the UN Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy. Morocco insisted on the need for a pragmatic approach, moving away from rigid stances, to reach a solution that ensures stability and prosperity for the entire region.

This meeting is part of Morocco’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its alliances and garner support for its stance on the Sahara. As the UN consultations approach, the Kingdom reaffirms its determination to defend its interests while remaining open to constructive dialogue under the auspices of the United Nations.