The Dominican Republic plans to open a consulate general in Dakhla, as announced by President Luis Abinader during a meeting with Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita. The official statement was signed by the President, who was inaugurated for a second term on August 16. The head of state reiterated «the Dominican Republic's firm support for Morocco's sovereignty over the Sahara» and emphasized the intention to prioritize the opening of a consulate in Dakhla in the country's future expansion plans, according to a press release from Dominican diplomacy on Saturday, August 17. The President also reaffirmed that «the Dominican Republic considers the autonomy plan proposed by Morocco to be the only solution to the Western Sahara dispute». Additionally, Luis Abinader expressed his «desire to improve relations between the two countries» and appreciated the King's invitation to visit the Kingdom. On Friday, August 16, Nasser Bourita represented King Mohammed VI at Abinader's inauguration ceremony. In a letter sent in July 2023, the Dominican Republic's Minister of Foreign Affairs had informed Nasser Bourita of President Luis Abinader's wish «to pay a state visit to Morocco to strengthen bilateral ties in the political, commercial, and cooperation spheres». He also announced that his country «is favorably considering the opening of a consulate in Dakhla».
