Over thirty British MPs and Lords sent a letter to the Foreign Secretary, David Cameron, on Friday, in which they called on the British executive, in a bipartisan approach, to “officially and without delay” support the Moroccan autonomy plan as the “only solution” to the artificial conflict over the Moroccan Sahara.
The MPs and members of the House of Lords pointed out that besides being the “most pragmatic” path, and most “balanced with respect for local traditions and democratic aspirations,” the autonomy initiative proposed by Morocco for the Sahara “offers a viable path toward lasting peace and stability.”
Noting that the initiative enjoys “broad backing” from London’s allies and more than 80 countries around the world, the signatories said that rallying around this plan, which is “the only realistic solution,” demonstrates the willingness of international partners to promote regional stability and prosperity.
“There should be no space for further separatism or division,” they insisted, adding that “we must reinforce Morocco’s proactive engagement in fostering regional security and stability.”
“Remaining neutral or attempting alternative resolutions can only perpetuate a harmful status quo that jeopardizes the security of the region,” they argued.
The signatories, several of whom having visited Morocco and its Southern Provinces, said during the trip, they had the opportunity to meet with local leaders, civil society representatives, and human rights organizations. They said they felt that their observations, coupled with those of respected academics such as Professor Marc Weller, Chair of International Law and Constitutional Studies at Cambridge University, reinforced their “conviction that the United Kingdom must provide proactive support for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan.”
In addition, the Sahara region has the potential to significantly improve energy opportunities, secure supply chains, and provide access to new markets, they wrote, citing strategic infrastructure, such as the “impressive” port of Dakhla, as evidence of sustainable progress, enabling the region to establish itself as a hub for innovation and international cooperation.
To fully realize this potential, London must provide the support of its financial institutions, such as UK export finance (UKEF) and British international investment (BII), reads the letter. This approach, adopted by other countries such as the United States and France, is compatible with the association agreement with Morocco, which covers the Moroccan Sahara region and has been ruled lawful by the High Court of Justice, according to the letter.
The signatories added that the UK must strengthen its alliances with stable, like-minded nations “in order to promote regional stability and international security,” assuring that “Morocco stands paramount among these partner nations.”
“It is a top strategic ally in North Africa, with shared values and perspectives crucial to both our countries,” they stated.
According to the signatories, the upcoming UK-Morocco strategic dialogue presents a singular occasion for the United Kingdom to redefine its role and influence in the region. Morocco deserves our unequivocal and complete support, they concluded.