The Republic of Paraguay announced on Wednesday its decision to open a Consulate General in the Moroccan Sahara, reaffirming its recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the territory.
The announcement came during a meeting in Rabat between Paraguay’s foreign minister, Rubén Ramírez Lezcano, and his Moroccan peer, Nasser Bourita.
Lezcano reiterated his country’s “full support” for Morocco’s territorial integrity and the autonomy initiative proposed by the Kingdom in 2007, which he described as “the only serious, credible and realistic basis” for resolving the regional dispute.
“This decision reflects Paraguay’s clear and consistent position in favor of Morocco’s sovereignty,” Lezcano stated, recalling Asunción’s withdrawal of recognition of the self-proclaimed entity in 2014 and the strengthening of bilateral ties through joint declarations and political consultations since then.
Beyond the symbolic importance of the consulate, Lezcano emphasized Paraguay’s ambition to elevate its partnership with Morocco to a strategic level.
“Paraguay is a gateway for Morocco to Latin America and Mercosur, while Morocco offers Paraguay privileged access to Africa and the Gulf region,” he said during a press briefing.
The two ministers discussed expanding cooperation in trade, investment, education, and security.
Lezcano called for negotiations toward a trade agreement between Morocco and Mercosur, which Paraguay will chair starting December. He also praised Morocco’s role as a potential export hub for Paraguayan agricultural products to African markets.
On the sidelines of the diplomatic meetings, Lezcano met with Morocco’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Abdessamad Kayouh, to explore collaboration in rail, air transport, and infrastructure. Both sides expressed interest in enhancing connectivity between Casablanca and Asunción and in training Paraguayan professionals in aviation and logistics.
Lezcano lauded Morocco’s infrastructure development under King Mohammed VI, calling the Kingdom “a regional and international model” in transport and mobility.
The Paraguayan minister also thanked Morocco for increasing scholarships for Paraguayan students and highlighted the shared hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup as an opportunity to deepen cultural and social integration through sport.