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U.S. Reaffirms Exclusive Support for Morocco’s Autonomy Proposal in Western Sahara Talks

Secretary of State Marco Rubio calls for immediate negotiations based solely on Morocco’s autonomy plan during a meeting with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita.

U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce speaks during her first press briefing at the State Department in Washington, D.C., U.S., March 6, 2025. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque/File Photo
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita  meet at the State Department

Overview

  • The United States reiterated its recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara and reaffirmed support for Morocco’s autonomy proposal as the only framework for resolving the conflict.
  • Secretary Marco Rubio emphasized the urgency of initiating negotiations without delay, urging all parties to base discussions exclusively on Morocco’s 2007 autonomy plan.
  • This policy, first established in 2020 during President Trump’s administration, remains a cornerstone of U.S. diplomatic efforts in the region.
  • The Western Sahara dispute, ongoing since 1975, involves Morocco’s claims to the territory and opposition from the Algeria-backed Polisario Front, which seeks independence.
  • The U.S. position aligns with recent support from France and Spain for Morocco’s autonomy plan, while Algeria and the Polisario Front insist on a referendum with independence as an option.