Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and King Mohammed VI of Morocco.Image:Supplied
In a letter addressed to the King of Morocco, Mohammed VI, last week Spanish head of Government Pedro Sanchez stood in full support of the autonomy initiative presented by Rabat, referring to it as “the most serious, realistic and credible basis for the resolution of the (West Sahara) dispute.”
This statement is a turning point in Spain’s relations with Morocco as it puts an end to a year-long crisis that has opposed both kingdoms. It’s also a major breakthrough that not only holds diplomatic significance, but also deep political and historical meanings.
The conflict in Western Sahara, a former Spanish colony, has been going on for decades. As the four parties’ involved in this regional dispute Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania and the Polisario called upon by UN Security Council’s resolutions to contribute in good faith and a spirit of compromise to the settlement of the issue, a call which Morocco answered in 2007 by formally presenting its Autonomy plan to the UN. The Security Council resolutions have described Morocco’s proposal as “serious and credible”.
Today, the Spanish Government is backing Morocco’s proposal. Spanish Prime Minister also emphasised on "the serious and credible efforts of Morocco within the framework of the United Nations to find a mutually acceptable solution.’’
As expected, many prominent Spanish political figures welcomed the renewed efforts given to the bilateral relations with Morocco after this decision.
Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, José Manuel Albares said: “We begin a new phase of relations with Morocco and close definitively a crisis with a strategic partner.
This new stage will be developed on a clear and ambitious roadmap to ensure the stability and sovereignty, territorial integrity and prosperity of our countries.”
It could be expected that from now on, Morocco's relations with Spain, and Europe, will make a leap, which will result in the improvement of security, economic and social development.