Rabat, Morocco — In a significant diplomatic move, Switzerland has publicly endorsed Morocco’s autonomy plan as the most credible and practical approach to resolving the Western Sahara territorial dispute. This statement, issued following discussions between Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis and Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita in Bern, coincides with the renewal of the UN mission’s mandate and underscores a global shift in support for the Moroccan initiative.
The joint declaration from Switzerland, which welcomed the UN Security Council Resolution 2797, emphasizes the potential for “genuine autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty “to serve as a viable solution to the ongoing conflict. This backing follows a growing trend of international recognition, with numerous countries describing the plan as a realistic and pragmatic solution to the Sahara dispute.
The Moroccan autonomy plan proposes a degree of self — governance for the Sahrawi population within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty, a proposal that has garnered increasing support from European nations and is currently under consideration by the European Union. Switzerland’s affirmation of the plan’s credibility is expected to bolster negotiations and influence the region’s future dynamics.
In addition to the Western Sahara issue, both nations have expressed their intent to deepen political dialogue and bilateral cooperation, particularly in areas such as trade, investment, renewable energy, and social security.
As Morocco and Switzerland celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations, the strengthening of this partnership is poised to enhance regional stability and economic cooperation.
The Swiss statement represents a critical milestone in the international community’s approach to the Sahara conflict, signaling a move away from the previous stance of supporting the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) towards acknowledging Morocco’s sovereignty. This endorsement by Switzerland, a neutral country with a strong reputation for diplomatic neutrality, carries significant weight and is likely to impact the ongoing negotiations and the broader international community’s stance on the matter.
The Swiss endorsement of Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara marks a pivotal moment in the search for a peaceful resolution to one of Africa’s longest-running conflicts.
As the international community continues to navigate the complexities of the Sahara issue, Switzerland’s support for a pragmatic solution could serve as a catalyst for progress and stability in the region.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
—
This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: moroccoworldnews
Source: Sara Zouiten
