Morocco is set to prioritize foreign investment and industrial development in the Sahara region, while Algeria is expected to de-emphasize the territorial dispute in its foreign engagements to strengthen bilateral partnerships, says a recent report published October 27 by Stratfor, an American strategic intelligence publishing company.
The report states that Morocco is planning to leverage international support for its autonomy plan to attract foreign investment and develop Western Sahara’s economy, particularly in the mining sector.
Renewable energy projects are also on the horizon, with Morocco seeking foreign investments to bolster the region’s growth.
Several countries supporting Moroccan sovereignty are opening or planning to open consulates in Laayoune and Dakhla, two key cities in the Sahara, further cementing international backing with local development.
The report states that while Algeria continues to provide support to the Polisario, the country will likely shift its foreign policy priorities away from the Sahara to strengthen its diplomatic standing and foster new regional relationships.
To achieve this, Algeria will have to reduce its emphasis on the Sahara issue to avoid contentious discussions within regional organizations.
However, Algeria will still provide material and political support to the Polisario Front, even as it seeks to broaden its partnerships with Egypt, Sahel countries in sub-Saharan Africa, and African Union members.
This expansion of partnerships comes in the context of Algeria’s strained relations with Spain have impacted its economy, leading to a decline in gas exports to Spain and the United States stepping in as a major gas supplier to the European country.
This fallout may also caution other European Union nations as they approach the Sahara issue in their relations with Algeria.
In the meantime, Morocco’s autonomy plan for Sahara has gained increased international backing, with the United States formally recognizing Moroccan control over the region in December 2020.
Spain, with historical ties to the area, also expressed support for Morocco’s autonomy plan in March 2022, which led to strained relations with Algeria. These diplomatic developments have created a complex web of international relationships surrounding the Sahara issue.
In the context of these developments,the United Nations Security Council is expected to vote on renewing the mandate of its peacekeeping mission in Western Sahara, known as MINURSO, before it expires on October 31.
These deliberations come against a backdrop of increasing tensions and growing frustration within the United Nations, particularly with the Polisario and their alleged interference with MINURSO operations along the berm that separates Moroccan-controlled Sahara from the Polisario-controlled territory.
add your comment
Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.