Flags of Côte d’Ivoire and Morocco © DR

Côte d’Ivoire reaffirms unwavering support for Morocco’s territorial integrity

Rabat, Morocco — High-level diplomatic exchanges between Côte d’Ivoire and Morocco have resulted in a renewed commitment to mutual sovereignty, with Abidjan firmly backing Rabat’s position on the Sahara issue. This stance emerged during talks between Nasser Bourita, Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Nialé Kaba, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, during her official visit to the Kingdom.

Diplomatic alignment strengthens Morocco’s position

In a joint communiqué, Côte d’Ivoire explicitly endorsed Morocco’s territorial integrity and sovereignty over the entire Sahara region. The Ivorian delegation emphasized that this support reflects a consistent diplomatic alignment with Morocco’s proposals, particularly its autonomy plan for the Sahara.

During the discussions, Nialé Kaba highlighted the significance of the UN Security Council Resolution 2797, which she described as a serious and credible framework for resolving the regional dispute. She also pointed to Côte d’Ivoire’s decision to open a consulate in Laâyoune in 2020 as a tangible demonstration of the deepening bilateral ties.

Morocco expresses gratitude for sustained African support

In response, Nasser Bourita conveyed Morocco’s appreciation for Côte d’Ivoire’s steadfast position, characterizing the bilateral relationship as a strategic partnership built on mutual trust and strengthened South-South cooperation. The meeting underscored the growing momentum behind Morocco’s autonomy initiative within African diplomatic circles.

The Ivorian stance aligns with recent endorsements from other African nations, reinforcing Morocco’s diplomatic standing in the Sahara issue. This development comes as Rabat continues to advocate for a negotiated solution under the framework of its autonomy plan, widely regarded as the most viable path to lasting peace in the region.