Switzerland Endorses Morocco's Autonomy Proposal
On April 24, 2026, Switzerland reaffirmed its support for Morocco's autonomy initiative, deeming it the "most serious, credible, and pragmatic" basis for resolving the regional dispute concerning Western Sahara. This declaration emphasizes Switzerland's commitment to maintain political dialogue and enhance bilateral partnerships with Morocco, which it recognizes as a significant partner in the region.
This stance was articulated in a joint statement issued by Ignazio Cassis, the Swiss Federal Councillor and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Nasser Bourita, Morocco's Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Abroad, during Bourita's working visit to Bern. The document praised the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2797, underscoring that "a genuine autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty could represent one of the most viable solutions" to the ongoing conflict. Furthermore, Switzerland reiterated its support for the pivotal role of the United Nations and the ongoing efforts of the UN Secretary-General's personal envoy.
Switzerland's renewed backing for Morocco's autonomy initiative reflects a growing international consensus, fueled by the dynamic leadership of King Mohammed VI in advocating for Morocco's territorial integrity and the autonomy proposal.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
During the discussions, the Swiss Foreign Minister highlighted Morocco's importance as a key partner for Switzerland on the southern shores of the Mediterranean and across Africa, attributing this partnership to the strategic guidance of King Mohammed VI. Both officials expressed satisfaction over the progress towards achieving several objectives outlined in a joint declaration made in Bern in December 2021, which was reaffirmed during Cassis's visit to Rabat in June 2023.
The dialogue also touched upon the advancements in trade, investment, climate change, renewable energies, legal cooperation, and social security between Switzerland and Morocco. Notably, they commended the launch of a Swiss economic cooperation program in Morocco set to commence in early 2025, funded by the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO).
As the two nations approach the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic relations, established following Morocco's independence in 1956, both Cassis and Bourita reiterated their mutual desire to further enhance their bilateral partnership.
In this spirit, both countries committed to continuing their political dialogue and strengthening their bilateral cooperation. During their meeting, the two ministers emphasized the promising and positive dynamics characterizing their relations, marked by a shared perspective on mutual interests and increased engagements in both bilateral and multilateral contexts. Bourita also held talks with Federal Councillor and Minister of Justice and Police, Alain Berset, focusing on the current state and prospects of Morocco-Switzerland relations, including ways to bolster their partnership across various sectors, including migration.
Both ministers acknowledged the high level of cooperation in migration matters, facilitated by the establishment of a migration dialogue in September 2023, which aims to create a framework for in-depth consultations on the various dimensions of migration. They agreed to jointly organize an event in 2026 during Switzerland's presidency of the Rabat Process, commemorating the 20th anniversary of this initiative, which was launched in Rabat in 2006.
As reported by madar21.com.
