The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative as a basis for resolving the Sahara dispute, describing the proposal as “the most credible and pragmatic basis for ending this dispute.”
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Hespress, UK government Arabic-language spokesperson Jocelyn Waller said London remained committed to its position backing the Moroccan initiative.
Waller also expressed regret over Russia’s veto of a U.S.-drafted Security Council resolution on the Sahara, describing the move as “regrettable and frustrating,” particularly because it came at a moment when there had been “a real opportunity to make progress” on the issue.
Long-standing ties and economic opportunities
Asked about the results and prospects of economic cooperation between Rabat and London, Waller described relations between the two countries as long-standing, dating back more than 800 years, and among the oldest diplomatic relationships in the world.
She said this history was reflected in bilateral economic and trade cooperation, which she put at approximately £5 billion (more than $6 billion). The UK, she added, hoped to increase that figure, particularly through cooperation in promising sectors such as clean energy, infrastructure and services.
Waller said the relationship extended beyond the two governments to their populations, noting that more than 1.5 million British nationals visit Morocco each year.
She described the ties as strong and long-term, adding that both countries were looking to deepen them through the enhanced strategic partnership signed last year.
Asked about British involvement in Morocco’s strategic projects ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, Waller said the UK was enthusiastic about opportunities to support the country’s preparations, drawing on its experience hosting the 2012 Olympic Games.
She said around 50 British companies had visited Morocco earlier this year to explore potential opportunities in infrastructure, services, security and other sectors.
Waller stressed that cooperation should not focus solely on the tournament itself, but also on its long-term legacy. Drawing on the experience of the London Olympics, she said the World Cup could create lasting benefits through infrastructure development, skills and employment opportunities.
She added that the UK was interested in supporting projects that would benefit Moroccan citizens well beyond the competition.
Cultural, educational and defense cooperation
Waller also highlighted the role of cultural and educational exchanges in relations between the two countries, pointing to the work of the British Council, English-language teaching initiatives, teacher training and the government-funded Chevening scholarship program for master’s students.
On Morocco’s role in regional security and stability, particularly amid developments in the Middle East, Waller described the country as an important UK partner and praised its contribution to efforts to promote peace and stability.
She said the challenges facing the Sahel and the Middle East, alongside ongoing wars and conflicts, made stronger cooperation and shared solutions increasingly important.
The spokesperson also pointed to the strategic defense partnership between the two countries, citing the annual Desert Eagle military exercises, which she said had continued for more than 25 years.
Waller said London was looking to further strengthen this cooperation in support of regional stability.
Concluding the interview during her visit to Morocco, Waller thanked Moroccans for their warm welcome, describing the country as one with a rich culture and long history. She said she hoped to return and further strengthen the friendship between the two countries.
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