UK supports controversial autonomy bid for African zone

(MENAFN) The UK has shifted its longstanding neutral stance by supporting Morocco’s proposal to grant limited autonomy to Western Sahara, a territory embroiled in a decades-long dispute in North Africa. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced the change during a visit to Rabat on Sunday, where he met with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and signed several cooperation agreements covering infrastructure, healthcare, and water management.

Lammy stated that the UK views Morocco’s autonomy plan, originally submitted in 2007, as the most credible and practical foundation for resolving the conflict. Since Morocco annexed Western Sahara in 1975 after Spain’s withdrawal, the dispute has remained unresolved despite a UN-brokered ceasefire in 1991. Efforts to hold a referendum on the territory’s status have repeatedly stalled.

Morocco’s 2007 Autonomy Plan proposes devolving administrative, legislative, and judicial authority to local residents while retaining Moroccan control over foreign policy, security, defense, and currency. The Polisario Front, supported by Algeria, insists on full independence and a UN-backed referendum, which Morocco rejects.

Last year, British MPs urged the government to recognize Moroccan sovereignty over the region, describing the autonomy plan as the only realistic option aligned with UK trade interests and regional stability.

Lammy emphasized that resolving the Western Sahara dispute would enhance North African stability and boost regional integration. With this move, the UK joins the US and France as permanent UN Security Council members backing Morocco’s position.

Algeria condemned the UK’s decision, accusing Morocco of using the autonomy plan to legitimize its occupation and delay a political solution. Algeria previously recalled its ambassador from France after similar French support for Morocco’s proposal in 2024.

MENAFN03062025000045015687ID1109629918