King Mohammed VI Declares “New Era” for Moroccan Sahara After UN Endorses Autonomy Plan
Rabat, The Gulf Observer: King Mohammed VI of Morocco delivered a special address to the nation on Friday evening, following the United Nations Security Council’s latest resolution on the Western Sahara dispute. The monarch hailed the resolution as a historic turning point that recognizes Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as the only credible framework for achieving a lasting political solution.
In his televised speech, the King described the moment as “a new chapter” in consolidating the Moroccanness of the Sahara, marking the closure of a “fabricated conflict” through a consensual, autonomy-based solution. The address coincided with two significant milestones — the 50th anniversary of the Green March and the 70th anniversary of Morocco’s independence.
“After fifty years of sacrifices, and with the help and guidance of the Almighty, we are starting a new chapter in the process of consolidating the Moroccanness of the Sahara,” the King declared. “This is a pivotal moment and a crucial turning point in the history of modern Morocco. There is a before October 31, 2025, and an after October 30.”
King Mohammed VI emphasized that two-thirds of UN member states now recognize Morocco’s Autonomy Initiative as the only viable framework for resolving the dispute. He highlighted the growing international recognition of Morocco’s economic sovereignty over its southern provinces, citing major global powers—including the United States, France, Britain, Russia, Spain, and the European Union—for encouraging investment and trade in the region.
“Our southern provinces can now become a hub for development and stability, and a major economic centre in the region, including the Sahel and the Sahara,” he noted.
The King announced that Morocco will update and refine its Autonomy Initiative before submitting it to the United Nations as the sole basis for negotiation, reaffirming its legitimacy as a realistic and sustainable solution.
Expressing his gratitude to countries that supported Morocco’s position, the monarch extended particular thanks to the United States, under the leadership of President Donald Trump, as well as to Britain, Spain, France, and Morocco’s Arab and African partners, for their constructive roles in advancing the peace process.
Despite celebrating the diplomatic achievement, King Mohammed VI underscored Morocco’s commitment to a solution that upholds dignity for all parties, stressing that Morocco does not view the development as a “victory” to be exploited.
“I hereby make a sincere appeal to our brothers in the Tindouf camps to seize this historic opportunity,” he said, urging them to reunite with their families and contribute to local development under Morocco’s Autonomy Initiative. “All Moroccans are equal, and there is no difference between those returning from the Tindouf camps and their brothers and sisters within the homeland.”
The King also extended an invitation to Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune to initiate “a sincere, brotherly dialogue” aimed at overcoming differences and fostering trust, cooperation, and good neighborliness between Morocco and Algeria. He reiterated his commitment to reviving the Maghreb Union on the basis of mutual respect and regional integration.
Concluding his address, King Mohammed VI paid tribute to the people of Morocco’s southern provinces and the nation’s security forces for their steadfast dedication to unity and territorial integrity. He also honored the legacy of his father, the late King Hassan II, the architect of the Green March, and remembered all those who sacrificed for Morocco’s sovereignty.
“The comprehensive development, security, and stability enjoyed by our southern provinces are the result of the sacrifices made by all Moroccans,” the King affirmed. “We are entering a new era — one of unity, dignity, and irreversible sovereignty.”
