Sahara: Wallonia Supports Morocco’s Autonomy Plan

Wallonia expressed support to the autonomy plan, presented in 2007 by Morocco, saying it is “a good basis for reaching a mutually acceptable solution” by the parties to the Sahara regional conflict.

The supportive stand was voiced Thursday in Rabat by Mr. Elio Di Rupo, Minister-President of this Belgian region, following his meeting with Moroccan foreign minister Nasser Bourita.

He also said Wallonia backs UN efforts engaged for a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution to the Sahara issue.

His talks with Bourita focused on Morocco’s relationship with European Union, EU-Morocco Green Partnership and latest developments on the regional and international scene.

“We count a lot on Morocco, gateway for investment in Africa, for boosting tripartite cooperation” based on win-win partnership, said Mr. Elio Di Rupo.

For his part, Moroccan top diplomat said cooperation with the Belgian region of Wallonia is part of the development of relations between Morocco and Belgium.

The joint statement issued during the latest visit paid to Morocco by Belgian FM Hadja Lahbib, opened up a new phase in bilateral relations, said Mr. Bourita.

In this joint statement, Belgium voiced firm support to Morocco’s autonomy plan for the Sahara. The same position has been reiterated by Mr. Di Rupo who commended Morocco’s “serious and credible” efforts for reaching an enduring and peaceful solution to the Sahara dispute.

Wednesday, Minister-President of Wallonia conferred with Head of Moroccan Govt. Aziz Akhannouch on ways of strengthening bilateral economic and trade cooperation ties.

They also talked about the upcoming meeting of the Joint High Commission due in Rabat in 2023 and hailed the solid friendship ties existing between the two Kingdoms under the leadership of King Mohammed VI and King Philippe.

Over 600,000 Moroccans are living, working and studying in Belgium, contributing to the economy of this European country.