Morocco and Côte d’Ivoire flags © DR
West African ally strengthens Morocco’s Sahara stance
Diplomatic backing deepens as Abidjan endorses Rabat’s territorial integrity
During an official working visit to Morocco, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Nialé Kaba, reaffirmed her country’s unwavering support for Morocco’s territorial integrity, including the Sahara region, following high-level talks with Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita in Rabat.
The joint statement highlighted Abidjan’s consistent alignment with Morocco’s position on the Sahara issue, emphasizing the credibility and seriousness of the Moroccan autonomy plan as the most viable solution to the regional dispute.
International recognition strengthens Morocco’s Sahara proposal
The Ivorian delegation also welcomed the United Nations Security Council’s adoption of Resolution 2797, which endorses the Moroccan autonomy initiative as the most credible path toward a lasting settlement. This endorsement follows Côte d’Ivoire’s strategic move in 2020 to open a consulate general in Laâyoune, further solidifying bilateral ties.
In response, Nasser Bourita expressed Morocco’s deep appreciation for Côte d’Ivoire’s steadfast diplomatic stance. He underscored the strength of the Morocco-Côte d’Ivoire partnership, built on mutual trust, South-South cooperation, and shared regional ambitions.
Key takeaways
- Côte d’Ivoire reaffirms support for Morocco’s territorial integrity, including the Sahara region.
- Abidjan endorses the Moroccan autonomy plan as the most credible solution to the dispute.
- UN Security Council Resolution 2797 is praised for recognizing Morocco’s proposal.
- 2020 consulate opening in Laâyoune marks a key step in strengthening Morocco-Côte d’Ivoire relations.
