In a noteworthy development, the United Kingdom has recently altered its stance on the contentious issue of Western Sahara, endorsing Morocco’s proposal to administer the territory with limited autonomy. This move, announced during a joint press conference in Rabat, signifies a pivotal shift in foreign policy, aligning the UK with Morocco’s vision for resolving the enduring dispute.
During the conference, British Foreign Minister David Lammy lauded Morocco’s approach as the most credible, viable, and pragmatic means to address the decades-long conflict. Lammy and Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita praised the burgeoning ties between the two nations, emphasizing collaboration in areas of security and trade and acknowledging Morocco’s position as a co-host of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Emphasizing the timeliness of this resolution, Lammy suggested that it could enhance stability in North Africa. He expressed ongoing support for the United Nations-led efforts and urged Morocco to provide further clarity on what the proposed autonomy would entail for the region under Moroccan rule.
Western Sahara, characterized by its phosphate-rich desert and abundant fisheries, has been a “non-self-governing territory” in the eyes of the United Nations for nearly five decades. Sovereignty claims are contested between Morocco and Polisario, the pro-independence faction operating from Algeria-based refugee camps.
The UK’s endorsement marks a significant foreign policy victory for Morocco, with the Kingdom now securing the backing of three permanent members of the UN Security Council, alongside France and the United States. Since 1991, the UN has maintained a peacekeeping mission to facilitate a referendum for determining the territory’s status, though most of the area remains under Moroccan control apart from a minor section near the Algeria border.
Despite historical conflicts, Western Sahara is gaining attention from international investors, with European and American companies showing interest in ventures related to fishing, agriculture, and infrastructure, particularly those aimed at harnessing renewable energy. However, while Morocco pursues foreign support and invests heavily in the region, negotiations have hit a stalemate, prompting the Polisario to seek legal battles internationally. They argue Morocco lacks the authority to exploit the region’s resources without a resolution to the territorial dispute.
Trade relations between Morocco and the UK are thriving, with an exchange of goods such as cars, fruits, and vegetables worth billions. Their cooperation extends to the XLinks project, which aims to harness renewable energy for Britain.
However, Algeria, a regional competitor, criticized the UK’s endorsement of Morocco’s plan as futile and ineffective in achieving a peaceful and credible resolution. Meanwhile, Polisario representatives have yet to respond to inquiries regarding the UK’s revised position.