In a significant diplomatic development, the Kingdom of Morocco has welcomed a recent statement from the Republic of Colombia, affirming its sovereignty over Western Sahara. This announcement was made by Colombian Vice-President José Manuel Restrepo and Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar during a meeting on August 8, 2026, which marks a pivotal shift in Colombia's stance on this long-standing issue.
During the meeting, Minister Bula Escobar explicitly stated that Colombia recognizes Morocco's sovereignty over its Sahara, signaling a new orientation in the country’s foreign policy. Vice-President Restrepo characterized this moment as a "new beginning" for the bilateral relationship, noting that Morocco is Colombia's premier ally in Africa. He emphasized Colombia's commitment to enhancing strategic partnerships with Morocco, which could pave the way for mutually beneficial cooperation between the two nations.
Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita described Colombia's decision to withdraw its recognition of the self-proclaimed Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) as a historic milestone. He remarked that this shift could provide substantial momentum to the bilateral ties, allowing both nations to leverage their geographical advantages—Morocco in Africa and Colombia in Latin America—as economic platforms for cooperation.
Bourita's presence in Cali, representing His Majesty King Mohammed VI at the investiture ceremony of Colombia's new President Abelardo de la Espriella, underscores Morocco's commitment to advancing this renewed momentum in diplomatic relations. This visit illustrates the Kingdom's desire to elevate its relations with Colombia to new heights, fostering a robust partnership that promises to benefit both countries significantly.
As reported by sg.finance.yahoo.com.
