The UK has made a major diplomatic shift as UK Backs Morocco’s Western Sahara Autonomy Plan. This move aligns the UK with several global allies while unlocking new trade opportunities tied to the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy confirmed the policy change during his visit to Rabat. For years, the UK remained neutral on the Western Sahara dispute, until the UK’s backing of Morocco’s plan was announced, now calling Morocco’s autonomy plan a “credible and pragmatic” solution.
This plan proposes local self-governance for Western Sahara under Moroccan sovereignty. The UK’s endorsement mirrors recent decisions by the US, France, Germany, and Spain. It also marks a clear break from decades of British neutrality.
In return, the Moroccan government must update its autonomy proposal as UK Backs Morocco’s Western Sahara Autonomy Plan. They must also restart negotiations with the Sahrawi people. The UK also demands support for the principle of self-determination.
This new agreement strengthens UK access to Morocco’s infrastructure markets as the UK endorses the Western Sahara Autonomy Plan. British firms will be able to bid on major contracts tied to World Cup preparations, including airport expansions and health sector upgrades.
Lammy described the UK and Morocco agreement as a win for UK industry. “British companies will now lead in securing major deals,” he said, noting Morocco’s upcoming World Cup role as a major opportunity for British exports.
Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita welcomed the UK’s backing of their Sahara plan. He called it an “historic moment” in the 800-year relationship between both nations. Bourita said this marked real progress in resolving a decades-long conflict.
Meanwhile, Algeria voiced sharp criticism of the UK’s backing of Morocco’s plan. Algeria supports the Polisario Front, which wants full independence for Western Sahara. Algerian leaders said the autonomy plan has never been approved by Sahrawi communities.
Although UK Backs Morocco’s Western Sahara Autonomy Plan, the UN has yet to deliver its long-promised referendum. That vote would let Western Saharans choose between independence or Moroccan rule. But it has remained stalled for years.
A joint UK-Morocco statement reaffirmed peaceful intentions as both nations demonstrated support while UK Backs Morocco’s Western Sahara autonomy proposal. Both nations agreed to avoid force and support self-determination. Still, the UK’s position now clearly favors Moroccan sovereignty—linked closely with economic gain and sporting diplomacy.
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