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.

• 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.

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United States Department of State