Burundi Strengthens Diplomatic Ties with Morocco Despite Algerian Setbacks

Burundi has reaffirmed its support for Morocco’s territorial integrity during a meeting with Moroccan officials, endorsing Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as a solution for Western Sahara. This statement marks a diplomatic setback for Algeria, which has been attempting to sway Burundi’s position. The growing number of African countries supporting Morocco indicates a strengthening of its stance in the ongoing dispute over Western Sahara.

Burundi has firmly reiterated its unwavering support for Morocco’s sovereignty, particularly over the disputed Western Sahara region, during a high-level diplomatic engagement held in Rabat on Thursday. The meeting between Burundi’s Foreign Minister Albert Shingiro and his Moroccan counterpart Nasser Bourita included a strong endorsement of Morocco’s Autonomy Plan, which Shingiro described as “the only credible and realistic solution” to the ongoing regional dispute concerning Western Sahara. Furthermore, Shingiro commended the efforts of the United Nations, recognizing it as the “exclusive framework” for achieving a sustainable resolution to the issue. Observers have noted that this reaffirmation of support from Burundi serves as a significant setback for Algeria’s diplomatic initiatives, as highlighted by Algerian political analyst Oualid Kebir, who expressed on social media that Algeria’s attempts to influence Burundi had ultimately failed. This affirmation follows Burundi’s previous actions, such as the opening of a consulate in Laayoune in February 2020, contributing to a broader trend of increasing African support for Morocco. The rise in the number of African nations backing Morocco’s stance is evidenced by Chad recently establishing a consulate in Dakhla, bringing the total to 29 countries with diplomatic missions in the region. This progression coincides with Morocco’s strategic return to the African Union (AU) in 2017 and the challenges it faces stemming from the Polisario Front’s involvement in the AU, as Morocco strives to create a supportive African coalition and build a legal case that questions the Polisario’s legitimacy within international frameworks.

The article discusses the ongoing diplomatic dynamics surrounding the territorial dispute over Western Sahara, particularly focusing on the position of Burundi in relation to Morocco. The region has long been a point of contention between Morocco and the Polisario Front, which seeks independence for the Sahrawi people. The situation has prompted various nations within Africa to establish diplomatic ties with Morocco, thus shifting the balance of support. The article also highlights Morocco’s efforts in the African Union to challenge the Polisario Front’s presence, aiming to consolidate support against its claims.

In summary, Burundi’s reaffirmation of support for Morocco’s territorial integrity signifies a notable diplomatic victory for Morocco and underscores the shifting allegiances within Africa regarding the Western Sahara dispute. As more African countries establish consulates in the region, it reflects a growing acceptance of Morocco’s position on the issue. This trend could have significant implications for Morocco’s ongoing efforts to both diplomatically and legally challenge the legitimacy of the Polisario Front in international forums.

Original Source: moroccoworldnews.com