The speech delivered by His Majesty King Mohammed VI on the occasion of the 49th anniversary of the Green March revealed a profound change in the dynamics characterizing the management of the question of Moroccan Sahara and its relationship with the Kingdom’s neighborhood. According to the international relations expert Mohammed Badine El Yattiouithis speech marks a significant break with the tone usually adopted by the Morocco in the past, signaling a real paradigm shift in the position of the Kingdom vis-à-vis its eastern neighbor, but also theUnited Nations (UN) regarding the Moroccan Sahara. The expert underlines that this speech embodies a concrete and pragmatic approach, anchored in the current context, and reaffirms the intransigence of Morocco which refuses to make the slightest concession on its territorial integrity.
Evolution of the discourse towards Algeria
Although the Sovereign did not mention theAlgeria namely, the allusions were both clear and impactful. He denounced the practices of those who exploit the Saharan conflict to hide domestic problems. Words that fit with the current situation in Algeria, which, while supporting the Polisario separatists, continues to advocate for a self-determination referendum. As our expert points out, “the attitude of Algeria, which has supported the Polisario separatists for decades while calling for a self-determination referendum for the Saharais strongly criticized for its “sclerotic” and “detached from reality” vision.
For Mr. El Yattioui, this development in the Royal Speech illustrates the desire to promote a global and inclusive solution, which goes beyond simple considerations of sovereignty to integrate perspectives of regional cooperation. In this sense, it addresses the geopolitical ambitions of access to the Atlantic Ocean, which reinforce the idea that the issues of the Sahara go beyond the simple conflict of sovereignty, including broader strategic interests in the region. “Recalling the Moroccan initiative in favor of access of the Sahel States to the Atlantic Ocean, HM King Mohammed VI sends a clear message to Algeria and other actors in the region: Morocco is ready to collaborate for a common future based on development and peace, while preserving its rights and sovereignty. It is an outstretched hand which reflects Morocco’s openness to regional partnerships, while reaffirming its intransigence on the question of territorial integrity,” observes the expert.
Urgent call for clarity and action for the UN
The speech of His Majesty the King highlights the critical importance of increased clarity on an issue that has dragged on for decades. “His Majesty’s call to the United Nations to assume “their responsibilities” is heard as a pressing demand for clarity and decision on an issue that has persisted for decades,” underlines Mr. El Yattioui. “This speech highlights the contrast between two paradigms: on the one hand, that of Morocco, anchored in a realistic approach supported by concrete actions in terms of development and security, and, on the other hand, that of its opponents , which He describes as nourished by myths of the past,” he adds.
In this perspective, the Sovereign encourages the international community to no longer support ideological positions disconnected from contemporary realities, which exacerbate unnecessary tension in an already fragile region. “Instead, HM King Mohammed VI urges the United Nations to recognize the correctness of the Moroccan model of integration of Sahara within the framework of reinforced autonomy, a model which, according to Morocco, guarantees the stability and development of this region,” notes the expert.
The role of MREs in consolidating a united front internationally
In parallel with this more frank position, the speech marks a significant evolution in the Kingdom’s diplomatic strategy. “This speech embodies a new dimension of Moroccan diplomatic strategy : strengthening links with Moroccans living abroad (MRE)for which the Sovereign announces a restructuring of institutions dedicated to the diaspora,” specifies Mr. El Yattioui.
According to him, through institutions such as the Council of the Moroccan Community Abroad and the Mohammedia Foundation, Morocco aims to increase the participation of nationals abroad in the defense of its interests, particularly with regard to the question of Moroccan Sahara. “This mobilization constitutes a lever of soft power, making it possible to involve thousands of Moroccans in active advocacy in favor of the national position,” he asserts. This proactive approach is part of the desire to present a united front on an international scale, thus illustrating the attachment of Moroccans around the world to the territorial integrity of their country, concludes Mr. El Yattioui.
