France reiterates support for Morocco’s Western Sahara plan

French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne reiterated French support for Morocco’s autonomy plan for the disputed region of Western Sahara, during a visit Monday to Rabat.

The Algeria-backed Polisario Front have been contesting Moroccan control of the former Spanish colony and are waging an armed struggle for independence. The United Nations considers Western Sahara a “non-self-governing territory”.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, Sejourne said Morocco can count on France’s “clear and constant support for its autonomy plan.”

"This is an existential issue for Morocco. We know it," he added.

Sejourne praised Moroccan development efforts in the regions, saying “Moroccan has invested a lot in development projects for the benefit of the local population and in terms of training, renewable energies, tourism." He asserted that France would support Moroccan development efforts.

The visit by the French Foreign Minister follows a period of tension between Paris and Rabat, centered on moves by French President Emmanuel Macron to move closer to Algeria, Morocco’s neighbor and regional rival.

Looking to the future, Sejourne proposed Monday a 30-year partnership with Morocco focused on renewable energies, training and industrial development. Moroccan Foreign Minister Bourita said: "France is a distinguished partner of Morocco on the political, economic and humanitarian levels."