Moroccan artists and athletes celebrate UN vote recognizing autonomy plan for Sahara

Morocco’s artistic and sports communities erupted in celebration after the United Nations Security Council adopted a historic resolution recognizing Morocco’s 2007 autonomy plan as the framework for resolving the Sahara dispute.

 Across social media and city streets, musicians, actors, and footballers joined a nationwide wave of pride, describing the decision as a turning point in Morocco’s modern history.

Singer Samira Said said Morocco was “writing a new page of history with wisdom and vision,” adding that the UN decision confirmed “the justice of Morocco’s cause and the soundness of its approach.”

 Fellow artist Asma Lmnawar declared that “the Sahara is Moroccan forever,” noting the symbolism of the resolution coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the Green March. 

Actress Sara Bouabidi congratulated King Mohammed VI, describing the resolution as “the culmination of years of patient diplomacy and foresight.”

Football stars also joined the chorus of celebration. Hakim Ziyech, the new Wydad Casablanca signing, called the UN decision “a great day for all Moroccans,” while his club released a video of the player saying, “We are proud and happy for our country. Long live the King, and long live Morocco.” 

Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi shared an image of the King on Instagram with the caption “God, Homeland, King.” Wydad’s midfielder Nordin Amrabat posted a video expressing gratitude to the monarch and to Moroccans, calling the decision “a victory for diplomacy under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.”

Clubs across the country joined in. Olympique Safi posted a video of its players and coaching staff singing the national anthem, while former coach Amine Kerma shared a map of Morocco with words of pride and unity.

The UN resolution, adopted Friday in New York, renews the mandate of MINURSO through 2026 and explicitly recognizes Morocco’s autonomy plan as the most feasible solution “in line with the UN Charter.” 

The text also reaffirms support for Secretary-General António Guterres and his envoy Staffan de Mistura in facilitating talks based on the Moroccan proposal.

Actress Rajaa Saheli, who joined street celebrations in the city of Taza, said “the entire country, from Tangier to Laayoune, is rejoicing.” Singer Dounia Batma said the Sahara “will remain Moroccan until the end of time,” calling the resolution “a historic victory that testifies to the unity and resilience of the nation.” 

Veteran artist Latifa Raafat broke her mourning silence for her late mother, saying that while “a mother’s love is irreplaceable, love for the homeland carries its own sacred joy.”

Singer Abdel Fattah Jirari said Morocco “belongs to its Sahara, and the Sahara to Morocco,” while actor Omar Lotfi described the UN decision as “another triumph for Morocco’s steady diplomacy.” Musician Nabila Maan called the day “written in gold,” asserting that Morocco’s territorial unity “will endure as long as the earth exists.”