Rabat – Malawi has reiterated its unwavering support for Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara, aligning with a growing number of nations endorsing Moroccan territorial integrity and autonomy plan.
George Thapatula Chaponda, Malawi’s new Minister of Foreign Affairs, conveyed this reaffirmation during a telephone conversation with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita. Chaponda described Morocco’s autonomy plan for the region as the “only credible and realistic solution” to end the Sahara dispute, echoing the sentiments of several other countries.
Chaponda also commended the United Nations for its efforts as the exclusive framework to reach a solution.
The two ministers expressed their commitment to boosting strategic and multisectoral cooperation between the two countries. They highlighted the diplomatic presence already established, including the Malawi Consulate General in Laâyoune, which has been operational since December 2023. This cooperation aims to align bilateral relations with the aspirations of both Heads of State.
Malawi and Morocco also expressed their satisfaction with the progress of bilateral relations since 2017, particularly in key sectors such as agriculture, fishing, mining, trade, and public finance.
Both ministers celebrated the strong bonds of friendship and solidarity between the two nations, as well as the respect and mutual esteem between King Mohammed VI and Malawi’s President, Arthur Peter Mutharika.
Following the discussion, the ministers announced plans to sign a new cooperation roadmap, designed to enhance the dynamism of the bilateral partnership and strengthen coordination and mutual support in regional and international forums.
A broader international trend
Malawi’s endorsement of Morocco’s autonomy plan reflects a broader trend of international support for Morocco’s position on Western Sahara.
Earlier this year, the United Kingdom officially endorsed Morocco’s autonomy plan as the most viable solution to the Western Sahara conflict. Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized that the plan offers a pragmatic framework, marking a significant shift from Britain’s previous position, which supported self-determination without committing to a specific plan. This endorsement places the UK alongside the United States and France in backing Morocco’s proposal.
France officially expressed its support for Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara in 2024 when President Emmanuel Macron backed Morocco’s autonomy plan and described it as the most credible solution to the conflict. In addition, French Culture Minister Rachida Dati visited Western Sahara to inaugurate a French cultural center, further symbolizing France’s commitment to Morocco’s position.
The United States recognized Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara back in December 2020, with Donald Trump recently reiterating support for Morocco’s autonomy plan and confirming plans to soon build a US consulate in the region.
Spain has also shifted its position in 2022 and endorsed the Moroccan initiative as the most serious and realistic basis for resolving the dispute. Portugal has similarly aligned with Morocco’s position, with the government expressing support for the autonomy plan and distancing itself from the self-styled Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR).
