On the international stage at the UN General Assembly, Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akannoush reaffirmed a key message: the solution to the Sahara issue is firmly rooted in Morocco’s autonomy initiative, which promises lasting peace and regional development. In a world often plagued by protracted conflicts, this initiative offers a practical solution and enjoys steady support from the international community. More than just a diplomatic framework, Morocco’s autonomy initiative is a cornerstone of regional stability and economic development.
The Kingdom of Morocco has long advocated for a peaceful resolution to the man-made conflict over the Sahara. His Majesty King Mohammed VI has repeatedly stressed Morocco’s firm commitment to this approach. At the heart of this effort is a political process defined by the United Nations and supported by a wide range of international actors, but its success depends on the full participation of all stakeholders, especially Algeria. Any solution that excludes a roundtable format with Algeria as a key participant is doomed to fail. The autonomy plan is not just a Moroccan proposal, it is a viable, internationally supported path to peace.
The message from the UN General Assembly was clear: the idea of autonomy is the only realistic and sustainable option. Akannoush’s declaration underscored Morocco’s unwavering position that no political process is possible outside of this framework and that any serious effort requires an end to hostilities by armed militias – a condition that has been consistently supported by the Security Council. The international community, recognizing that this realistic solution is the only way forward, is increasingly aligning itself with Morocco’s approach.
Voices in support of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara continue to grow. Countries around the world are expressing their support for the autonomy initiative, which would see the Sahara an integral part of Morocco and enjoy extensive autonomy. This wave of international recognition sends a strong message to all parties involved: the time has come to move towards a political solution based on an autonomy plan. Only through this path can we open up new horizons for the development of the entire region.
But this initiative is more than just a political framework; it represents a vision for a future that will bring economic prosperity and stability. Morocco’s southern states have experienced unprecedented growth, benefiting from a new development model tailored to these regions. Infrastructure, education, health and renewable energy projects have transformed the region, making it one of the Kingdom’s most dynamic growth areas. The Autonomy Plan promises to build on these successes, bringing hope and tangible improvements to the lives of the Sahrawi people.
The role of the Sahrawi people themselves is equally important: they are active participants in Morocco’s political and socio-economic life through their democratically elected representatives, expressing a deep attachment to the Kingdom’s territorial integrity and their Moroccan identity. This local engagement is a powerful testament to the strength of the Moroccan approach and its commitment to inclusive governance.
The autonomy initiative aims not only to end a regional conflict, but to create a brighter future for the entire Maghreb region. By accepting this solution, Morocco is laying the groundwork for closer cooperation, shared prosperity, and a peaceful solution that benefits all parties. The world is taking notice, and momentum is building. As more countries support Morocco’s initiative, it becomes clearer that this is the way forward.
Morocco continues to promote the initiative, but its message has remained consistent: peace, stability and development in the Sahrawi are inseparable from the autonomy initiative. The international community, the United Nations and even previously neutral countries are beginning to recognize the Moroccan initiative as the only viable way to resolve the conflict. All parties, especially Algeria, must now engage in dialogue in good faith and work towards a solution that benefits not only the Sahrawi but the broader region.
“The road ahead is difficult, but the leadership of Morocco’s King Mohammed VI offers a ray of hope for sustainable peace. The autonomy initiative, supported by international agreements, offers a unique opportunity to turn a new page on this long-standing challenge and move towards a future characterized by stability, unity and shared prosperity. The time to act is now, before the region loses the opportunity to realize its full potential.”
“In a volatile world, Morocco’s commitment to a peaceful and realistic solution for the Sahrawi is an example of leadership, vision and hope. The autonomy initiative is not just a proposal; it is key to unlocking a future of lasting peace and development for the region. The international community must seize this opportunity and move together towards a final solution that benefits the people of the Sahrawi, Morocco and the wider region.”
