Morocco’s Foreign Minister, Nasser Bourita, dismissed a recent United Nations envoy’s proposal to partition Western Sahara as “unacceptable,” reaffirming the kingdom’s stance against dividing the disputed territory. Bourita’s comments followed a closed-door UN Security Council meeting where the partition plan was suggested by Western Sahara envoy, Staffan de Mistura.
The envoy’s proposal, which calls for splitting the territory between Morocco and the pro-independence Polisario Front, was a reiteration of ideas previously rejected by Morocco. “Morocco has never, and will never, entertain such a proposal as it opposes the kingdom’s fundamental position that the Sahara is Moroccan,” Bourita stated during a press conference in Rabat.
While Morocco controls about 80% of Western Sahara, the Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, continues to push for independence. The conflict has persisted since Spain’s 1975 withdrawal, with the UN labeling the region a “non-autonomous territory.” Despite a 1991 ceasefire agreement that included plans for a referendum on self-determination, the process remains stalled.
Bourita also referenced past rejections of similar proposals, including a 2002 plan by former UN envoy James Baker, and called for renewed political discussions under Moroccan sovereignty. Relations between Algeria and Morocco have been strained, with diplomatic ties severed in 2021. Bourita reiterated Morocco’s call for a “round table” dialogue, emphasizing a political solution within the framework of Morocco’s autonomy plan.
During the press conference, Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna voiced support for Morocco’s plan, describing it as a “credible basis” for resolving the conflict.
