January 27, 2021 – 10:00 am – Morocco
Pressure is mounting on the Moroccan-Spanish government to recognize Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara, or at least to show its support for a regional solution to the conflict, as France has done.
Morocco, according to diplomatic sources, prioritizes good relations with the United States over relations with Spain. Last month, the United States recognized Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara. In response, the state normalized its relationship with Israel.
During a video conference between US and Moroccan diplomats, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Borita urged Spain to follow the US example or support the Moroccan Autonomous Plan for the Moroccan Sahara. “Europe must step out of its comfort zone and follow the dynamics of the United States,” Borita said, “recognizing Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara and supporting its autonomy.”
“Part of Europe needs to be brave because it is close to this conflict,” the minister said. For Rabat, it was important to change the mind of Spain because it was a former colonial power in the Sahara. According to Moroccan officials, Spain’s support could lead to the support of other EU member states.
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