Romania backs Morocco's autonomy plan as basis for Sahara solution

Romania has expressed support for Morocco's autonomy initiative as the basis for resolving the Western Sahara dispute, stating that «genuine autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty can constitute a viable solution».

In a message addressed to King Mohammed VI, Romanian President Nicușor Dan said Romania considers the autonomy plan presented by Morocco in 2007 to be «the most appropriate, serious, credible and realistic basis» for reaching «a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution», according to a statement from Morocco's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

President Dan said Romania's position follows «an in-depth analysis» of developments in the Sahara issue, which he described as a matter of major importance to Morocco. He also recalled that Romania was among the first countries to express support for Morocco's position on the Sahara and welcomed the King's efforts in 2022, adding that the current international context provides the right framework for Romania to further develop its position in line with its European and international commitments.

The message was delivered to Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita on Monday by Dacian Cioloș, adviser to the Romanian president and former prime minister.

Morocco's Foreign Ministry said Romania's announcement is part of the growing international momentum in support of Morocco's sovereignty over the Sahara and its autonomy plan, led by King Mohammed VI. According to the ministry, around 30 European countries, including 24 EU member states, and more than two-thirds of UN member states now support this dynamic.