Belgium confirms its support for Morocco's Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara
- Belgian support for the autonomy initiative in the Sahara
- Political and diplomatic cooperation
- Economic momentum and investment opportunities
- The Moroccan community in Belgium as a pillar of bilateral relations
Morocco and Belgium reaffirm in Brussels their willingness to strengthen a strategic partnership in political, social and economic matters.
Ratified by the Foreign Affairs Ministers of both countries, Nasser Bourita and Maxime Prévot, the agreements signed confirmed Belgian support for the Moroccan Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara presented in 2007 by King Mohammed VI of Morocco as ‘the most credible and realistic solution to the conflict’, aligning itself with a diplomatic vision that prioritises dialogue and regional stability.
They also highlighted the important role of the Moroccan community in Belgium, which they described as a ‘fundamental bridge in the dialogue’ and in the convergence of views on regional and international challenges, seeking to promote more intensive cooperation.
Belgian support for the autonomy initiative in the Sahara
Belgium announced its support for the Moroccan Autonomy Plan for the Sahara, considering it ‘the most appropriate and realistic basis for finding a political solution to the regional dispute.’
The joint statement by the foreign ministers confirmed this diplomatic alignment and represents a significant step forward in the international dynamic of support for Morocco.
This position reflects Belgium's willingness to act in line with this perspective in both diplomatic and economic terms, promoting new opportunities for collaboration and cooperation.
Strategic and economic implications
Belgium's recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over the Sahara opens new doors for investment and project development in the region. Cooperation between the two countries focuses on the development of renewable energies, infrastructure and industry, thus promoting a positive impact on the local economy, neighbouring regions and countries, and the entire African continent.
This position would place the city of Dakhla in a strategic hub that would facilitate Belgium's access to the emerging markets of West and Central Africa.
Political and diplomatic cooperation
Political dialogue between Morocco and Belgium has intensified significantly in recent years, especially following the establishment of the High Joint Commission. This commission established a roadmap for bilateral cooperation focused on regional stability and common international challenges.
During the meeting in Brussels, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and his Belgian counterpart Maxime Prévot confirmed the excellence of exchanges in this area.
Convergence on regional security
One of the essential aspects of the strengthening of diplomatic ties between Morocco and Belgium is cooperation on regional security and the fight against terrorism, where the North African country plays a key role in Europe's security.
This alliance contributes to establishing a secure framework that guarantees coordinated responses to the challenges posed by irregular migration, terrorism and other phenomena affecting Europe and Africa.
Economic momentum and investment opportunities
Economic development occupies a key place on the agenda for cooperation between Morocco and Belgium. Both parties agreed on the need to take their relationship to a higher level by creating and strengthening technological value chains focused on strategic sectors.
Green hydrogen, sustainable energy transition, modern infrastructure and technological innovation were identified as priority areas for joint investment.
Potential of the Southern Provinces
The Southern Provinces of Morocco are emerging as a key area for the expansion of trade and investment opportunities. The realistic and ambitious vision of turning this region into a hub for development will attract Belgian economic operators, enabling privileged access to markets in West and Central Africa.
Morocco has pointed to specific examples of international partners that have formalised their support for the Autonomy Plan, including the United States, France, Germany and the United Kingdom. Now, Belgium, with its advanced position, aspires to be a leading player in this dynamic.
The Moroccan community in Belgium as a pillar of bilateral relations
The Moroccan community residing in Belgium represents a vital element in the construction and consolidation of bilateral cooperation. It is recognised as a common heritage that contributes significantly to social, economic and cultural integration within the European country.
Minister Nasser Bourita highlighted its role in the fields of entrepreneurship, scientific research, arts and sport, emphasising the strong attachment they maintain to Moroccan culture and roots, which strengthens the human and social bond between the two societies.
Model of integration and migration cooperation
The Moroccan community in Belgium is an exemplary model of cultural and social integration based on diversity. This fact drives joint initiatives to manage migration with responsibility and solidarity, in a scenario where both nations seek to design policies that respect human rights and sustainable development.
Within this framework, cooperation agreements are promoted to facilitate mobility, improve the living conditions of migrants and enhance the contribution of these communities to the local and regional economy.
