Greece and Denmark Strengthen Support for Morocco's Autonomy Plan in Western Sahara

Greece has renewed its commitment to the autonomy plan proposed by Morocco for Western Sahara, characterizing it as a 'serious and credible contribution' to the ongoing political dialogue facilitated by the United Nations. This affirmation was made by Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis during a meeting in Athens with his Moroccan counterpart, Nasser Bourita, who is on an official visit to Greece. Gerapetritis emphasized that in accordance with the European Union's unified stance, Athens 'fully supports the efforts' made by the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy, Staffan de Mistura, who is dedicated to negotiating based on the Moroccan proposal. The ultimate goal is to achieve a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable resolution. Gerapetritis noted the significance of Greece's role as a non-permanent member of the Security Council for the 2025–2026 term and welcomed the adoption of Resolution 2797, which positions the autonomy plan as the foundation for ongoing negotiations aimed at a definitive political solution. He remarked, 'We believe that the autonomy proposal constitutes a serious and credible contribution to the ongoing United Nations process and could represent the most viable solution.' Gerapetritis also described Morocco as a 'pillar of stability' in the region and an active contributor to the development of the African continent. The Bilateral Economic Agenda The discussions between Bourita and Gerapetritis extended beyond the Sahara issue, delving into the enhancement of bilateral relations. The two ministers explored opportunities for strengthening economic and trade cooperation, focusing on critical areas such as infrastructure, green energy, water resource management, ports and maritime transport, and the agri-food sector. Greece views Morocco as a strategic gateway to the markets of sub-Saharan Africa and is keenly observing the potential arising from major infrastructure initiatives linked to the upcoming 2030 FIFA World Cup, where Morocco will co-host alongside Spain and Portugal. Copenhagen Joins the Support for Morocco’s Plan Denmark has also expressed its backing for Morocco's autonomy plan, labeling it as 'a sound basis for a mutually agreed solution' to the Sahara issue. This declaration was made by Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen during Bourita's visit to Copenhagen, as reported by the Moroccan news agency MAP. Rasmussen affirmed that 'Denmark welcomes, in alignment with the European Union's position, the adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2797,' describing the Moroccan proposal as 'credible' and a 'serious and essential contribution to the ongoing UN process.' With this declaration, Denmark, a member of the UN Security Council, reinforces its position within the international movement advocating for Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara and the autonomy plan promoted by Rabat under the leadership of King Mohammed VI. The stances taken by Athens and Copenhagen are indicative of a broader European trend towards convergence around the negotiation process based on the Moroccan proposal, particularly following the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2797, which centrally places the autonomy plan in the ongoing discussions for a final political resolution to the protracted dispute. For Morocco, the increasing consensus among its European allies signifies a strategic advancement in its diplomatic efforts to solidify international recognition of its sovereignty over the territory, while the economic ramifications—from infrastructure agreements to energy and port collaborations—continue to be a critical and growing facet of bilateral relations with European nations.As reported by en.ilsole24ore.com.