On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, Morocco achieved significant diplomatic victories, dealing another setback to opponents of its territorial integrity.

In just one day, Malta and Chile publicly expressed support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative for the Sahara, bolstering the international momentum in favour of a peaceful resolution to the longstanding dispute.

Chile’s Firm Backing for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan

During an official visit to Morocco, Chilean Minister of Foreign Affairs Alberto Van Klaveren Stork unequivocally endorsed Morocco’s autonomy initiative.

In a joint statement with Moroccan Foreign Affairs Minister Nasser Bourita, Chile reiterated its commitment to a pragmatic, fair, and lasting solution to the Sahara issue.

The Chilean minister described Morocco’s 2007 autonomy plan as a credible and realistic framework for resolving the dispute.

Chile further acknowledged the centrality of the United Nations in this political process, emphasizing the importance of UN Security Council Resolution 2756, adopted on October 31, 2024.

“This support underscores Chile’s recognition of Morocco’s serious and credible efforts to achieve a mutually acceptable solution to the Sahara issue,” noted Minister Van Klaveren.

Malta Joins Growing EU Support for Morocco

Marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Morocco, Malta also declared its support for Morocco’s autonomy plan.

In a videoconference between Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Ian Borg, and Nasser Bourita, Malta described the autonomy initiative as “a solid basis for a definitive solution” to the Sahara conflict.

Malta’s stance aligns with that of over 20 European Union member states that have endorsed Morocco’s autonomy proposal, further consolidating European support for Morocco’s efforts.

A Strengthened International Consensus

Under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, Moroccan diplomacy continues to solidify global backing for its Sahara initiative.

To date, more than 115 countries across Africa, the Arab world, Europe, the Americas, and Asia have expressed their support for Morocco’s autonomy plan.

These endorsements reinforce the Kingdom’s position on the international stage as it seeks a definitive, peaceful resolution to the Sahara conflict.

The growing consensus represents a significant blow to opponents of Morocco’s territorial integrity, further affirming the Kingdom’s diplomatic success in advancing its cause.