Polisario sets conditions for mending ties with Spain

The Polisario Front conditions resuming relations with the Spanish government, suspended in April 2022, on Spain cancelling its support for Morocco's autonomy plan. Brahim Ghali, leader of the Polisario Front, clarified this position on Sunday, May 5th.

Previously, on March 14, 2022, Ghali had stated, «We are waiting for the situation to be corrected», emphasizing the importance of maintaining ties with Spanish society. He acknowledged the «solidarity movement» in Spain and its potential to influence the Prime Minister's stance.

On April 9, 2022, the Polisario Front's General Secretariat announced the «suspension of all contact with the current Spanish government». This action stemmed from Pedro Sanchez's endorsement of «the Moroccan occupation plan».

It's important to note that Algeria, a key supporter of the Polisario Front, took a more aggressive approach. This included recalling their ambassador from Madrid and imposing economic sanctions. However, after nearly two years, Algeria has resumed communication with Spain, appointing a new ambassador and lifting economic restrictions.

For context, on February 21st in Rabat, Pedro Sanchez expressed his support for Morocco's autonomy plan for Western Sahara, deeming it a «realistic» proposal.