Accra, April 8, GNA – The Netherlands has expressed support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative as the most realistic and credible basis for resolving the Sahara dispute, while reaffirming Rabat’s status as a key strategic partner for regional and global peace and stability.
The position was announced on Tuesday in Rabat by the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Tom Berendsen, following talks with Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Mr Nasser Bourita, during an official working visit to the Kingdom.
At a joint press briefing, Mr Berendsen said the Dutch government now considers genuine autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty as the most feasible solution to the long-standing Sahara issue, marking a shift towards stronger alignment with Morocco’s position.
The stance was formalised in a joint communiqué, in which the Netherlands reaffirmed its support for United Nations Security Council Resolution 2797 and backing for the efforts of the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, Mr Staffan de Mistura, who is leading negotiations towards a political settlement.
According to the communiqué, the Netherlands will act in line with this position at both diplomatic and economic levels, in compliance with international law, a move expected to further strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two countries.
Mr Berendsen also highlighted Morocco’s broader geopolitical role, describing the Kingdom, under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, as a reliable partner and an active contributor to peace and stability at the regional and international levels.
He commended the King’s engagement, particularly in his role as Chairman of the Al-Quds Committee, in support of the Palestinian cause, and praised Morocco’s cooperation with the Netherlands during the recent Global Alliance meeting on the implementation of the two-State solution.
The Dutch Foreign Minister further cited Morocco’s modern infrastructure, ongoing economic reforms and expanding investment opportunities, noting that the country is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for Dutch investors.
In the current global context, he said Morocco serves as a strategic gateway for the Netherlands to West Africa, the Sahel and the Gulf region, while also acknowledging Rabat’s efforts in promoting development and stability across the Sahel.
The Dutch declaration forms part of growing European support for Morocco’s autonomy proposal, adding momentum to the Kingdom’s diplomatic efforts on the Sahara issue.
GNA
Kenneth Odeng Adade