Burundi Reaffirms Support for Morocco’s Territorial Integrity and Autonomy Plan

Burundi reaffirms its strong support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara region during a meeting between its Foreign Minister and his Moroccan counterpart, endorsing Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as the viable resolution to the territorial dispute and commending the UN’s role in this process.

On October 11, during a meeting held in Rabat, Nasser Bourita, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates, engaged in discussions with Albert Shingiro, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation of Burundi. Shingiro reaffirmed Burundi’s longstanding support for Morocco’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, including the disputed Sahara region. He expressed Burundi’s endorsement of Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as the sole credible and pragmatic approach to resolving the regional dispute. Furthermore, he commended the ongoing efforts of the United Nations, advocating for the international body as the appropriate platform for achieving a practical and lasting resolution to the Sahara issue.

The discussions between Burundi and Morocco highlight the ongoing geopolitical dynamics surrounding Western Sahara, a region under dispute since the mid-20th century. Morocco claims sovereignty over the territory, while the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, supported by Algeria, asserts its right to self-determination. The Autonomy Plan proposed by Morocco suggests a self-governing status for the Sahara, and various countries, such as Burundi, have expressed their support for this plan as a means to achieve stability and resolution.

In conclusion, Burundi’s reiteration of support for Morocco’s territorial claims and the Autonomy Plan signifies a crucial alignment in the geopolitical landscape of North Africa. This endorsement not only strengthens bilateral relations between Burundi and Morocco but also reflects a broader consensus among certain states regarding the path forward for the resolution of the Sahara conflict. The facilitation of dialogue under the auspices of the United Nations remains pivotal to achieving a multifaceted solution.

Original Source: gna.org.gh