Massad Boulos denies secret Morocco-Algeria talks, says dialogue is open and ongoing

The United States is not running any secret talks between Morocco and Algeria, Masad Boulos, senior adviser to the US president on Arab and African affairs, said Sunday in an interview with Al-Hadath.

Boulos explained that the dialogue is open, steady, and focused on supporting a long-term peace process after more than five decades of conflict.

Boulos said Washington has been actively working with both countries for several weeks and that the talks have intensified in recent days.

The US official explained that Morocco has been flexible and willing to discuss ideas from other parties, showing a real effort to move toward a resolution. 

Boulos noted that Algeria and the Polisario Front have voiced concerns about some points, but he said technical discussions with all sides can address these issues.

The recent UN Security Council resolution renewing the MINURSO mission has provided a clearer framework for progress, as it reaffirmed the principle of self-determination and recognized Morocco’s autonomy plan as a practical way to settle the conflict. 

Boulos added that even though not every detail was accepted by all parties, the resolution gave room for constructive talks and helped identify shared positions.

Boulos said the United States continues to act as a mediator, coordinating closely with both Morocco and Algeria to reach outcomes that both sides can accept. 

The US official added that this work is supported by other countries, including France, the United Kingdom, and partners across Africa, Europe, and Asia, all contributing to dialogue and regional stability.

Boulos said Morocco’s recent diplomatic moves toward Algeria, including outreach from King Mohammed VI, show a willingness to rebuild neighborly relations based on discussion and respect. 

According to him, Washington sees this as a rare opportunity to advance peace after decades of tension and that ongoing talks are public and continuous, designed to maintain momentum and encourage a positive response from Algeria.

Boulos said the process is not easy, but both sides have shown readiness to work together, and Morocco’s flexibility, Algeria’s engagement, and international support create a real chance to move the decades-old conflict toward a solution.