Madrid Reinforces Its Position: Steadfast Support for the Autonomy Initiative in the Sahara and Continuous Strengthening of Relations with Rabat
In a move affirming its ongoing support for Morocco’s autonomy proposal as a practical solution to the Sahara dispute, the Spanish government reiterated its firm stance through an official response to a question from the Popular Party parliamentary group in the Senate, referencing the joint declaration issued on April 7, 2022, following the meeting between King Mohammed VI and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. This declaration, which established a new phase in bilateral relations, serves as the cornerstone of Spain’s support for Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern regions.
The governmental response, addressed to Senator José Antonio Monago Terrazas, indicated that Madrid views the Moroccan autonomy initiative as a serious and realistic framework for resolving this regional conflict, recognizing the significance of the Sahara issue for Rabat. This position is not a recent development; rather, it represents a pivotal shift in the relationships between the two countries, ending a phase of tension and political instability, and opening the door to a partnership based on mutual respect, trust, and shared interests.
The Spanish government consistently emphasizes its commitment to this direction, despite repeated pressures from some political and media circles advocating for the separatist narrative within Spain. However, Sánchez’s government insists on framing its position as a sovereign and strategic choice, independent of internal disputes. Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares confirmed in media statements last March that Morocco is a primary strategic partner for Spain and the European Union, praising the close cooperation between the two sides in vital areas such as security, counterterrorism, and migration.
Spain’s stance on the Moroccan Sahara issue carries significant implications, given Spain’s historical background as a former colonial power in the region, endowing it with substantial political and legal weight on the international stage. This shift in Madrid’s position represents qualitative support for the Moroccan initiative and has encouraged several European countries, including France and the United Kingdom, to adopt similar stances, thereby enhancing international momentum around the autonomy solution as a realistic option to resolve this long-standing conflict.
