A new permanent member of the United Nations Security Council has just shifted its stance on the Western Sahara issue. The United Kingdom, which had previously maintained a neutral position, has now announced its support for the Moroccan autonomy plan. This significant change highlights the growing positive momentum of Moroccan diplomacy. The United Kingdom considers Morocco's 2007 autonomy plan to be «the most credible, viable, and pragmatic basis for a lasting settlement» of the Sahara dispute. London has committed to supporting this position at bilateral, regional, and international levels, as part of efforts to help resolve the conflict. This position was outlined in a joint communiqué signed in Rabat on Sunday by the UK's Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, David Lammy, and Morocco's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Bourita. The communiqué highlights the United Kingdom's support for the «positive momentum» initiated under the leadership of King Mohammed VI. It also underscores London's recognition of «the importance of the Sahara issue» for Morocco and stresses that a lasting solution would «enhance stability in North Africa» while giving fresh impetus to regional integration and bilateral cooperation. Economic Support for Projects in the Southern Provinces The United Kingdom also confirms, through UK Export Finance, its readiness to provide financial support for economic projects in Morocco's Saharan provinces. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to mobilize up to £5 billion (over 62 billion dirhams) in funding for new projects across the Kingdom. The joint communiqué also reiterates that the UK views Morocco as «a key gateway for Africa's socio-economic development» and reaffirms its intention to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries across the continent. A Position That Reinforces International Support Both sides reaffirm their commitment to the UN-led political process and express full support for the efforts of the Secretary-General's Personal Envoy, Staffan de Mistura. They stress the importance of reaching a consensual political solution. As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, the United Kingdom pledges to «actively support» this mediation and declares itself «ready, willing, and determined» to assist in efforts towards a lasting resolution of the conflict, in the interests of all parties. The UK's position aligns with a growing international consensus in favor of Morocco's autonomy plan. It reinforces the Moroccan initiative as a realistic and unifying solution and further strengthens Morocco's diplomatic standing with major global powers. «It is high time to move this issue forward», the communiqué concludes, calling for an urgent resolution that ensures regional stability and fosters deeper cooperation across North Africa.
