US to Open Consulate in Western Sahara, Affirming Morocco’s Sovereignty

In a statement, Mike Pompeo indicates that "in accordance with President Trump’s proclamation on the recognition of the Kingdom of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara, the State Department announces that it has begun the process of establishing a US consulate in the region", adding that it has inaugurated "a virtual presence post", which will soon be followed by a fully operational consulate.

Furthermore, the US Secretary of State expressed his country’s willingness to support the negotiations between Morocco and the Polisario to reach a solution, within the framework of the autonomy plan proposed by the Kingdom.

To recall, the United States announced the opening of a consulate in Dakhla on December 10 following the recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara. In exchange, Morocco decided to restore its diplomatic relations with Israel.