The United Nations, a key player in the Western Sahara issue, said that its approach ‘will remain unchanged’ following France’s recent endorsement of Morocco’s Autonomy Plan.
Stéphane Dujarric, the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, said during a press briefing that the organization would continue its efforts “in accordance with the resolutions of the Security Council.”
While acknowledging France’s letter to Morocco, Dujarric emphasized the UN’s commitment to its established framework.
The European Union, another influential actor, also reaffirmed its stance on Western Sahara. In a statement, an EU spokesperson said that the bloc’s position remains unaltered, despite France’s decision.
The EU reiterated its support for UN Secretary-General António Guterres and his envoy Staffan de Mistura in their pursuit of a fair, realistic, pragmatic, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution to the conflict.
This solution, the EU said, must align with the resolutions of the UN Security Council.
France’s recent declaration recognizing Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara has ignited a wave of diplomatic responses.
Macron’s announcement positions France firmly behind Morocco’s autonomy plan, a step that brings it closer to Spain, which expressed similar support.
Paris has become the second permanent member state of the Security Council to recognize Moroccan sovereignty over the disputed territory. This move places France alongside the United States, which adopted a similar stance in 2020.
In a message to King Mohammed VI coinciding with Morocco’s Throne Day, Macron said that the “present and future” of Western Sahara lie within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty.
Macron further emphasized France’s intention to uphold this position both domestically and internationally.
Morocco has long sought international recognition of its sovereignty over Western Sahara, and France’s decision is seen as a significant boost to Morocco’s position.
This bold declaration has provoked a strong response from Algeria. As a direct consequence of France’s decision, Algiers has recalled its ambassador from Paris with immediate effect.
