Flags of Morocco and Côte d’Ivoire © DR

West Africa backs Morocco’s Sahara autonomy plan

Côte d’Ivoire reaffirms unwavering support for Morocco’s territorial integrity and sovereignty over the Sahara region following high-level talks in Rabat. The commitment was solidified during meetings between Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Nialé Kaba, during her official working visit to the Kingdom.

Diplomatic ties strengthened through mutual recognition

Nialé Kaba emphasized Côte d’Ivoire’s consistent and steadfast support for Morocco’s position, aligning Abidjan with Rabat’s stance on the Sahara question. This endorsement comes as the international community increasingly recognizes Morocco’s autonomy plan as the most viable solution to the decades-long dispute.

The Ivorian minister also praised the United Nations Security Council’s adoption of Resolution 2797, which endorses the Moroccan autonomy initiative as the most credible and serious foundation for a lasting resolution. She highlighted Côte d’Ivoire’s decision to open a consulate in Laâyoune in 2020 as further proof of the deepening bilateral relationship between the two nations.

Morocco expresses gratitude for enduring partnership

In response, Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita conveyed deep appreciation for Côte d’Ivoire’s steadfast support, describing the bilateral relationship as a robust strategic partnership built on mutual trust and strengthened South-South cooperation. The meetings underscored the growing alignment between African nations on key regional issues, particularly regarding Morocco’s territorial integrity.