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On Tuesday, Morocco’s King Mohammed VI renewed his appeal for discussions with Algeria to mend their strained relationship, which has been significantly impacted by disagreements over the Western Sahara.
In a speech marking his 26th anniversary as monarch, King Mohammed VI stated Morocco is prepared for “a frank and responsible dialogue” that is “fraternal and sincere on the various outstanding issues between the two countries.”
The Western Sahara, a former Spanish colony, is largely controlled by Morocco but is recognised by the United Nations as a non-self-governing territory. For five decades, Morocco has been in conflict with the Algerian-backed Polisario Front separatists over the region.
The king advocated for “a consensual solution that saves face for all parties, where there will be neither winner nor loser,” though he did not elaborate further.
Credit: www.assahifa.com
Concurrently, he highlighted increasing international backing for Morocco’s autonomy plan for the Western Sahara, emphasising it would be “within the framework of Morocco’s sovereignty.”
This plan gained significant support when the United States recognised Moroccan sovereignty over the disputed region in 2020 in exchange for normalised diplomatic relations with Israel. Since then, countries like France have also offered their support to Morocco.
Algeria severed ties with Morocco in 2021, accusing Rabat of supporting separatist movements.
Earlier on Tuesday, King Mohammed VI granted pardons or commuted the sentences of 19,673 individuals, one of the largest royal pardons in the country’s history.
Mohammed VI, 61, ascended to the throne on July 23, 1999, following the passing of his father, Hassan II.
