King Mohammed VI delivered, on Friday evening, a landmark address to the Moroccan people following the historic vote by the United Nations Security Council endorsing the Kingdom’s Autonomy Initiative as the sole framework for resolving the regional dispute over the Moroccan Sahara.

In a speech charged with national pride and forward-looking vision, the Sovereign hailed the decision as “a new chapter in consolidating the Moroccanness of the Sahara,” marking what he called a turning point in modern Moroccan history.

“After 50 years of sacrifices, and with the help and guidance of the Almighty, we are starting a new chapter in the process of consolidating the Moroccanness of the Sahara,” the King declared. “There is a before October 31, 2025, and an after October 30.”

A New Era for a Unified Morocco

Coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the Green March and the 70th anniversary of Morocco’s independence, the Security Council’s resolution was described by the Monarch as a “manifest victory” for legitimacy, diplomacy, and perseverance.

His Majesty underscored that the UN decision confirms the international community’s growing recognition of Morocco’s Autonomy Initiative as “the only realistic, viable and durable solution” to the regional conflict. Today, he said, two-thirds of UN member states support the initiative, demonstrating a decisive global consensus.

The King emphasised that this international momentum now paves the way for a unified Morocco from Tangier to Lagouira, where “the country’s rights and historical borders will not be infringed upon by anyone.”

International Recognition and Economic Confidence

Highlighting the growing global support, His Majesty cited the endorsement of major powers—including the United States, France, Britain, Russia, Spain, and the European Union—which have encouraged trade and investment in the southern provinces.

This recognition, the King noted, strengthens Morocco’s economic sovereignty and positions the southern provinces as a hub for development, stability, and regional integration, particularly across the Sahel and the Sahara.

“Our southern provinces can now become a hub for development and stability, and a major economic centre in the region,” His Majesty said.

He announced that Morocco would soon update and submit an enhanced version of its Autonomy Initiative to the United Nations, establishing it as the sole basis for future negotiations.

Gratitude to Allies and Appeal for Reconciliation

The King expressed his deep gratitude to the nations that contributed to this historic development. He paid special tribute to the United States of America, under President Donald Trump, for paving the way toward a final settlement, and to Morocco’s European and African allies for their “constructive and tireless efforts in support of right and legitimacy.”

His Majesty reiterated Morocco’s commitment to a peaceful, inclusive solution that safeguards the dignity of all. The Kingdom, he stressed, “does not see these developments as a victory, nor will it exploit them to fuel conflict or disputes.”

In a humanitarian and reconciliatory gesture, the Monarch appealed directly to Moroccans in the Tindouf camps to seize this “historic opportunity” to reunite with their families and participate in building a united homeland through the Autonomy Initiative.

“All Moroccans are equal,” he affirmed, “and there is no difference between those returning from the Tindouf camps and their brothers and sisters within the homeland.”

Call for Moroccan-Algerian Dialogue and Maghreb Unity

In a significant diplomatic overture, King Mohammed VI invited Algerian President Abdelmajid Tebboune to engage in a “sincere and brotherly dialogue” aimed at overcoming differences and rebuilding relations based on mutual trust and good neighbourliness.

He reaffirmed Morocco’s steadfast commitment to reviving the Arab Maghreb Union, grounded in cooperation, respect, and regional integration among the five Maghreb states.

Tribute to the Green March Generation

As the nation prepares to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Green March, the Monarch paid homage to the sacrifices and heroism of the Moroccan people, especially those in the southern provinces, for their “unflinching commitment to the nation’s sacred, immutable values.”

He also expressed his pride in the efforts of Moroccan diplomacy—official, parliamentary, and civic—in defending the Kingdom’s territorial integrity and sovereignty on the international stage.

The King concluded with a solemn tribute to the Royal Armed Forces, the security services, and all who have defended Morocco’s unity over the past five decades, invoking prayers for His late Majesty King Hassan II, architect of the Green March, and for all martyrs of the nation.

“The comprehensive development, security, and stability enjoyed by our southern provinces are the result of the sacrifices made by all Moroccans,” His Majesty said, closing his address with prayers for unity and peace.