Portugal has thrown its weight behind Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara, describing it as a “serious and credible” approach to resolving the decades-old conflict. Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel announced the support during a diplomatic visit to Lisbon by the Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita. With this development, Portugal joins a growing list of Western allies backing Morocco’s sovereignty claims. The dispute, rooted in Spain’s 1975 withdrawal from the territory, has pitted Morocco against the Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, which demands full independence for the territory. Morocco’s proposal offers limited self-rule to the region but under Rabat’s sovereignty—a framework the Polisario firmly rejects. While UN-brokered talks have dragged on without resolution, Portugal’s endorsement boosts Morocco’s international standing and adds fresh momentum to stalled negotiations.
Africa News
