US praises Morocco autonomy plan for Western Sahara

The US has praised Morocco’s “autonomy plan” for Western Sahara as “serious, credible and realistic” which could “meet the aspirations of the people of the region.”

In a joint media statement, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and Deputy US Secretary of State Wendy Sherman expressed their intent “to continue cooperation on issues of common interest such as regional peace and prosperity, and the development of Africa and regional security.”

They added their strong support for Staffan de Mistura, the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, in leading the political process for Western Sahara. According to Sherman, the Moroccan autonomy plan is “one potential approach” for the disputed territory.

The US official thanked Morocco — “a stable security-exporting partner” — for its leadership of the Global Counterterrorism Forum and its sustaining role in the Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh. Moreover, Sherman expressed appreciation for Morocco’s continued support for the African Lion multilateral military exercises.

Following the Joint Declaration of 22 December 2020 signed by Morocco, the US and Israel, she welcomed the “continued deepening of relations between Morocco and Israel” as the discussion focused on “ways and means to boost cooperation between the three countries.”

READ: UN envoy to Western Sahara tours Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania