France Backs Moroccan Autonomy Plan, Strengthening Ties and Signaling New Era in Mediterranean Relations
In a landmark address to the Moroccan Parliament on Tuesday, French President Emmanuel Macron declared France’s unwavering support for Morocco’s autonomy plan for the Western Sahara region. This significant declaration, emphasizing the plan as the “only solution” to the long-standing dispute, signals a potential turning point in the region’s geopolitical landscape.
Macron’s statement, delivered with conviction, asserted that France considers the Western Sahara region to be under Moroccan sovereignty. He underscored that this stance aligns with ongoing United Nations negotiations and paves the way for a “new chapter” in the Mediterranean, fostering stronger ties between Morocco, the European Union, and France.
Far from being adversarial, Macron emphasized that France’s position aims to foster collaboration and progress. He pledged French support for the region’s development through sustainable investments and initiatives that directly benefit the local population.
This announcement deepens the already strong bond between France and Morocco. Macron highlighted existing collaborations in higher education, economic development, and cutting-edge technology, calling for an even stronger strategic partnership to drive progress across the African continent.
The Western Sahara dispute, a decades-long issue, has seen renewed international attention in recent years. Morocco’s autonomy plan, presented in 2007, proposes a self-governing Western Sahara within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty. This plan has gained increasing international support as a realistic and viable solution.
France’s clear and public endorsement of the Moroccan autonomy plan carries significant weight on the international stage. As a permanent member of the UN Security Council and a key player in European and African affairs, France’s position could influence other nations to reconsider their stance on the Western Sahara issue.
This development comes at a crucial juncture for the region. The potential for increased stability and economic growth in the Western Sahara, driven by international investment and collaboration, could have a ripple effect, fostering prosperity and cooperation across North Africa and beyond.
