Oman Reaffirms Support for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan, Lauds Bilateral Ties During 7th Joint Commission

Rabat, The Gulf Observer: Oman has reaffirmed its strong support for Morocco’s territorial integrity and the Autonomy Plan as the most viable solution to the Western Sahara dispute, during a press conference at the conclusion of the 7th Moroccan-Omani Joint Commission held in Rabat.

The meeting was co-chaired by Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and his Omani counterpart Badr Bin Hamad Bin Hamoud Al Busaidi, reflecting the depth of diplomatic ties and shared strategic vision between the two countries.

Oman’s endorsement of Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces comes amid growing international backing for Rabat’s position. Citing the Autonomy Plan as the only credible and realistic solution to the long-standing dispute, Oman expressed its deep appreciation for Morocco’s leadership and diplomatic efforts.

The reaffirmation follows similar declarations from major global actors. On April 8, the US State Department renewed its support for Morocco’s autonomy proposal, describing it as “serious, credible, and realistic.” On April 11, France reiterated its firm stance, stating that its position on Morocco’s sovereignty is “no longer subject to discussion.”

During the commission meeting, Oman also acknowledged Morocco’s contributions to regional and international peace and stability, particularly praising King Mohammed VI’s steadfast commitment to preserving the status of Jerusalem and advocating for peace across Africa and the broader Muslim world.

Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation

Both nations agreed to bolster cooperation across a wide range of sectors. Minister Bourita highlighted the need to inject “new momentum” into the already strong Moroccan-Omani relations by adopting a win-win approach that focuses on strategic investment and mutual development.

He specifically invited Omani investors to explore opportunities in Morocco, particularly those tied to Morocco’s preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, for which the Kingdom is a joint host with Spain and Portugal.

“Oman is welcome to take full advantage of Morocco’s investment incentives under the new Investment Charter,” said Bourita, emphasizing opportunities for private sector collaboration.

Al Busaidi echoed this sentiment, affirming Oman’s readiness to explore all avenues of partnership to meet the development goals of both countries. He expressed pride in the historical and brotherly relations between the two nations and underscored Oman’s interest in expanding cooperation across diverse sectors.

Agreements Signed to Deepen Partnership

The Joint Commission concluded with the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in key sectors:

• An MoU on maritime training and the recognition of seafarers’ certificates, aligned with the 1978 International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).
• An agreement on renewable energy collaboration, targeting shared objectives in sustainability and green technologies.
• Further MoUs in education, digital transformation, and transportation, reflecting the countries’ commitment to innovation and knowledge exchange.

This high-level bilateral engagement signals a new chapter in Moroccan-Omani relations, centered on shared values, economic opportunity, and enduring diplomatic solidarity—especially concerning the sovereignty and unity of the Kingdom of Morocco.