Bolivian MP endorses Morocco’s Autonomy Initiative as only solution for Sahara Dispute

Member of the Bolivian Parliament Samantha Nogales has publicly endorsed Morocco’s Autonomy Initiative for the Sahara, describing it as the only viable solution to the ongoing regional dispute over the Kingdom’s southern provinces.

In a statement she made following her recent five-day visit to Morocco (June 23-28) at the head of a parliamentary delegation, Samantha Nogales emphasized her “firm” belief that the autonomy plan presented by Morocco in 2007 is the way out to end the regional conflict over the Sahara.

Nogales highlighted her firsthand experience in the Sahara region, where she and her delegation met with local officials and were briefed on various development projects driving significant regional growth.

These projects, she noted, showcased Morocco’s commitment to improving the area’s infrastructure and human development.

Nogales outlined that the primary objective of the Bolivian delegation’s visit was to establish stronger ties between the legislative institutions of Bolivia and Morocco.

“This visit marks a new stage of fruitful cooperation based on non-interference in internal affairs and respect for national sovereignty,” the Bolivian delegation had told MAP while in Morocco.

The delegation expressed amazement and admiration for the huge investments in infrastructure and human development in the Sahara. Nogales, who chairs the Economic International Relations Committee in the Bolivian Chamber of Representatives, had noted the remarkable progress and economic diversification in Morocco, calling it a “model for Bolivia.”

Discussions with Moroccan officials and MPs underscored the importance of enhancing bilateral relations. The delegation also met with the National Human Rights Council to learn about Morocco’s advancements in human and fundamental rights.

Nogales voiced hope that the upcoming legislative elections in Bolivia would open new avenues for strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in trade. She called for increased cooperation in vital sectors, the facilitation of exchanges, investments, and business opportunities for the private sector.

The Bolivian parliamentary delegation included Pamela Soraya Alurralde Barea, Rosa Tatiana Añez, and Mayra Ingrid Zalles.