The separatist Polisario Front is seemingly outraged by Spain’s continued support and commitment for Morocco’s territorial integrity and strong cross-sectorial cooperation.
Following Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s visit to Rabat on Wednesday, the Polisario issued a statement, lamenting that “Sánchez has missed the opportunity to return the Spanish government to an official position aligned with international law regarding the Sahara.”
The separatist movement stated that Sánchez’ reiterated support for Morocco’s autonomy plan “implies continuing to base bilateral relations between Spain and Morocco on the alleged systematic human rights violations committed with impunity in the Sahara.”
The Front claimed that “this approach seriously compromises the Spanish government’s position on human rights.”
“Although Sánchez insists on considering Morocco’s proposal as ‘a realistic basis,’ this does not in any way alter the legal nature of the Western Sahara issue,” the statement reads.
The Polisario concluded that “Spain has renounced its prominent role in the Sahara issue, given its status as the administering power of the territory.”
The statement is a direct response to Sánchez’ visit to Morocco on this week, where he was received by King Mohammed VI, consolidating the neighboring countries’ flourishing relations and cooperation.
It is Sánchez’s first visit to Morocco since being appointed for a second term at the end of 2023, and his fifth since his first election to the Prime Minister position.
Sánchez reiterated his country’s endorsement of the Moroccan proposed autonomy plan for the Sahara, noting its significance in advancing a realistic and credible resolution to the lingering territorial dispute.
The Spanish Prime Minister commended Morocco’s strategic initiatives, including efforts to promote cooperation among Atlantic-bordering African nations and initiatives such as the Atlantic Gas Pipeline project.
In response, King Mohammed VI expressed gratitude for Spain’s constructive stance on the matter, highlighting the importance of mutual respect and cooperation.
Initially, Prime Minister Sánchez’s government positioned itself as neutral in the Sahara issue, supporting the UN-led peace process. This neutral approach garnered mixed reactions.
However, a dramatic shift occurred in March 2022 when Sánchez endorsed Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara.
This decision was seen as a significant tilt towards Morocco’s stance, but sparked outrage in the Polisario Front. The latter severed ties with Spain, deeming it a “betrayal” and an abandonment of neutrality.
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