The Moroccan Sahara: from diplomatic discourse to the reality of US strategy
- US statement on the Sahara
- Political and economic impact of the US position
- Development model in the southern provinces
- Autonomy initiative as a solution to the conflict
- Levels of the US message
- Unshakeable reality in the face of opponents of territorial integrity
- Morocco's role in the region
- Future of the Moroccan Sahara
US statement on the Sahara
However, the recent US statement, following the meeting between the Senior Advisor for African Affairs and the Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Bourita, was unusually clear: the United States renews its recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over its Sahara and affirms that the Autonomy Initiative is the only basis for a just and lasting solution to this conflict.
Political and economic impact of the US position
The importance lies not only in the content of the message, but also in the way Washington linked the political dimension to the economic one. Emphasising that US companies are moving forward with investments in ‘all regions of Morocco, including the Sahara’ means, in practical terms, the consolidation of the Moroccan identity of the southern provinces and their natural integration into the path of national development. It is a step that transcends political discourse to enshrine a tangible reality that reinforces stability and strengthens the strategic partnership.
Development model in the southern provinces
This positioning takes on greater weight when considering the dynamics set in motion by Morocco itself on the ground. Since the launch in 2015 of the new development model for the southern provinces, on the initiative of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the state has invested billions of dollars in infrastructure, port and motorway projects, as well as in education, health and renewable energy. The cities of Laayoune and Dajla have become regional platforms for investment and Afro-European connection, making development a tool for strengthening national belonging and guaranteeing the dignity of citizens.
Autonomy initiative as a solution to the conflict
On the political level, Morocco did not present the Autonomy Initiative as an imposition, but as a balanced compromise solution: it grants the population the highest degree of self-management under Moroccan sovereignty and breaks with the separatist chimeras that have proven their limits. Since its presentation in 2007, this proposal has been increasingly welcomed as a serious and credible solution, as confirmed today by the positions of several major capitals, led by Washington.
Levels of the US message
The US message is deployed on three parallel levels:
- Political: to promote the UN process on a clear basis, namely autonomy.
- Economic: guarantee the legitimacy of US investments in the southern provinces as an integral part of Moroccan territory.
- Strategic: reinforce Morocco's position as a reliable ally in a region marked by security crises and transnational challenges.
Unshakeable reality for opponents of territorial integrity
This new equation confronts opponents of territorial integrity with an unshakeable reality: an increasingly broad international discourse supporting autonomy, large investments creating economic facts on the ground, and strategic partnerships consolidating regional stability. Morocco, for its part, is reaping the rewards of a long-term policy that combines real vision, diplomatic patience and concrete development achievements.
Morocco's role in the region
This US position cannot be analysed without considering the broader role that Morocco plays in the region. In addition to promoting the development of its southern provinces, Morocco contributes to regional security by fighting terrorism and organised crime, cooperating closely on migration issues and acting as an effective mediator in Africa. These initiatives reflect the image of a responsible and active country, capable of being a strategic partner for both the United States and Europe.
Future of the Moroccan Sahara
The conclusion is clear: the future of the Moroccan Sahara will not be decided by ideological slogans or obsolete bets, but by a practical and applicable solution: the Autonomy Initiative. Washington has already recognised this reality and, little by little, the whole world is moving towards its acceptance.