Zambia Reaffirms Support for Morocco’s Sovereignty over Western Sahara
Laayoune, Western Sahara – Zambia has reiterated its unwavering support for Morocco’s territorial integrity and sovereignty over the Western Sahara region. This reaffirmation came during the first session of the Joint Cooperation Committee between the Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of Zambia held in Laayoune on Friday, December 13, 2024.
Zambian Foreign Minister, Mulambo Haimbe, and his Moroccan counterpart, Nasser Bourita, jointly chaired the committee meeting. In a joint statement, Minister Haimbe emphasized Zambia’s backing of Morocco’s Autonomy Plan, describing it as the “sole credible, serious, and realistic” solution to the long-standing regional dispute. This echoes a growing international consensus recognizing the plan’s viability. Several countries have recently opened consulates in Laayoune and Dakhla, further solidifying this trend. [Link to a relevant news article about consulate openings]
Minister Haimbe commended the leadership of King Mohammed VI and the momentum he has generated in support of the Autonomy Plan. He praised the King’s efforts to foster a peaceful and prosperous future for the region. This reaffirmation of support comes at a crucial time, as the international community seeks a lasting resolution to the Western Sahara issue.
Zambia’s position aligns with the increasing number of African and international actors who view the Autonomy Plan as the most pragmatic path forward. The plan proposes a framework for self-governance under Moroccan sovereignty, addressing the needs of the local population while respecting the Kingdom’s territorial integrity. [Link to a resource explaining the Moroccan Autonomy Plan]
The United Nations continues to play a vital role in facilitating a resolution. Minister Haimbe underscored Zambia’s commitment to the UN-led political process as the exclusive framework for achieving a “realistic, practical, and sustainable” solution. This reinforces the importance of international cooperation and dialogue in addressing complex geopolitical challenges.
The Joint Cooperation Committee meeting also served as a platform to strengthen bilateral ties between Morocco and Zambia. Discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including trade, investment, agriculture, and education. This renewed partnership underscores the shared commitment of both nations to fostering sustainable development and regional stability. [Link to a resource about Morocco-Zambia relations if available]
This strong endorsement from Zambia further strengthens Morocco’s position in the ongoing discussions surrounding the Western Sahara. It highlights the growing international support for the Autonomy Plan as the most viable solution for a peaceful and prosperous future for the region. The continued focus on diplomatic engagement and cooperation remains crucial for achieving a lasting resolution within the framework of the United Nations.
Keywords: Western Sahara, Morocco, Zambia, Autonomy Plan, Sovereignty, Territorial Integrity, King Mohammed VI, Nasser Bourita, Mulambo Haimbe, United Nations, Joint Cooperation Committee, Laayoune, Dakhla, International Relations, Diplomacy, Africa.
