Ghana backs Morocco’s autonomy proposal for the Sahara
From Rabat, Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, expressed strong support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative for the Sahara. During his meeting with his Moroccan counterpart, Nasser Bourita, the two diplomats signed a memorandum of understanding on political consultations and issued a joint statement describing Morocco’s plan as “the only realistic and sustainable basis” for a mutually acceptable political solution.
Ghana also praised the efforts of the United Nations in the matter, highlighting its role as the “exclusive framework” for achieving a fair and pragmatic solution to this regional dispute. This position clearly demonstrates Accra’s willingness to support a peaceful outcome consistent with international law and regional stability.
In the joint statement, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa stated that Morocco’s autonomy plan aligns fully with Ghana’s peaceful foreign policy. He emphasized that his country remains committed to peace, dialogue, and cooperation, and that any lasting solution must be negotiated under the UN’s auspices.
The Ghanaian minister warned against diplomatic deadlocks that hinder development and regional stability. He urged all parties to return to the negotiation table and work constructively toward lasting peace, setting aside rigid stances and confrontational logic.
This stance marks a significant shift in Ghana’s diplomacy, particularly following its suspension of relations with the self-proclaimed “Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic” last January. Ghana thus joins a growing list of countries openly backing the Moroccan solution.
Regionally, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa also emphasized the need to strengthen security cooperation with Morocco, particularly in response to the growing threats of terrorism and violent extremism in the Sahel. He praised Rabat’s key role in this area and mentioned strategic partnership prospects.
The minister further praised the overall quality of bilateral relations between Accra and Rabat, describing them as being at their “highest level.” He highlighted mobility, academic exchanges, investment, and joint efforts toward sustainable development in Africa.
In conclusion, he conveyed the Ghanaian president’s greetings to King Mohammed VI, announcing an upcoming state visit to Morocco. A highly symbolic gesture that seals this strategic rapprochement between two major African nations.