US Reaffirms Support for Moroccan Sovereignty in Western Sahara Dispute

"Secretary of State Rubio reiterated that the United States recognizes Moroccan sovereignty over the Western Sahara and supports Morocco’s serious, credible and realistic autonomy proposal as the only basis for a just and lasting solution to the conflict," Massad Boulos recalled in an interview with the Algerian newspaper El Watan during his visit to Algiers at the end of July. These statements by Rubio had caused irritation in Algiers. But the United States continues to play the card of firmness. Their support for the Moroccan autonomy plan is unambiguous.

"The United States continues to believe that genuine autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty is the only viable solution. The Secretary has reaffirmed President Trump’s call to the parties to engage without delay in discussions, using the Moroccan proposal as the only framework, to negotiate a mutually acceptable solution. The Secretary indicated that the United States would facilitate progress towards this objective," he added.

Boulos also said he appreciated the opportunity to meet directly with the Algerian President and the Algerian Foreign Minister on the United States’ commitment to "a long-awaited peaceful settlement, and our joint efforts to achieve it."