Netherlands reiterates support for Morocco’s autonomy plan for the Sahara

The Netherlands reiterated, Thursday in New York, its support for the Moroccan autonomy plan, deeming it a “very serious and credible” contribution to the political process led by the United Nations.

“The Netherlands considers the autonomy plan, presented by Morocco in 2007, as a very serious and credible contribution to the political process led by the United Nations,” to resolve the conflict over the Sahara, Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp told the press.

The minister, who stressed “the importance of regional stability,” reiterated his country’s support for the efforts of the Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for the Sahara, Staffan de Mistura, to “pursue a political process aimed at achieving a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution in accordance with the resolutions of the UN Security Council and the principles set out in the Charter of the United Nations.”

The Dutch official also welcomed the “very strong and very broad” relations with Morocco, which cover a large number of issues, including trade, security, the fight against terrorism, and migration.

Morocco’s role as a “very stable partner in the region is crucial in this regard,” said the Dutch top diplomat, adding that his country appreciates the “strategic partnership” with Morocco, and is looking forward to “seeing this cooperation deepen and broaden even more in the future.”

Mr. Veldkamp underlined that relations between the two countries are part of a broader context between Morocco and the European Union, saying that “Morocco is a very important neighbor of Europe.”