Western Sahara: Washington pushes Morocco and Algeria toward a final deal

Massad Boulos, President Donald Trump’s special envoy, has summoned the foreign ministers of Morocco, Algeria and Mauritania, along with the leaders of the Polisario Front, for February 23 and 24. These confidential discussions come amid mounting pressure from the United States to close this historic dossier before next summer, El Confidential reports.

On Bladi.net : Sahara Talks: Washington Pushes Morocco and Algeria Toward a Swift Deal

The negotiations are based on a new 40-page autonomy proposal drawn up by Rabat. This document, described as the “most viable solution” by the UN Security Council, provides for local management of healthcare and education, while keeping defense and currency under Moroccan authority.

Despite Boulos’s optimism, as he says the process is “already on the path to resolution,” the Polisario Front is voicing major reservations. The movement notably rejects the terms of the future referendum and demands binding American guarantees to ensure that Rabat will respect future regional autonomy agreements.

On Bladi.net : Sahara: Washington imposes a 3-month ultimatum on Morocco and Algeria

This diplomatic offensive by Washington sidelines the European Union, leaving France and Spain out of the current process. The United States is nevertheless encouraging Morocco to soften its position on identity symbols, noting that the American states have their own flags and anthems to affirm their identity.