Guinea backs Morocco’s Sahara autonomy plan as ‘sole solution’ to dispute

Guinea has once again expressed its backing for Morocco's sovereignty over the Sahara, stating that autonomy under Moroccan rule is the only viable solution to the long-standing dispute. This stance was reiterated during the 8th meeting of the Morocco-Guinea Joint Cooperation Commission in Conakry on Tuesday. The gathering was jointly chaired by Morocco's Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, and Guinea's Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Integration, and Guineans Living Abroad, Dr Morissanda Kouyaté.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Kouyaté reiterated Guinea's unwavering support for Morocco's claim to the Sahara and its proposed autonomy framework. He emphasized that "the Republic of Guinea reaffirms its steadfast and unwavering support for the Moroccanness of the Sahara and for Morocco’s sovereignty over this part of its territory."

Dr Kouyaté also affirmed Morocco's plan for autonomy as the "sole solution to this dispute, as advocated by Morocco before the UN Security Council." The Guinean leader highlighted the consulate in Morocco's Dakhla city, opened by his country in January 2020, as a tangible demonstration of its principled position and a symbol of enduring solidarity.

Morocco's Minister of Foreign Affairs responded by expressing gratitude for Guinea's ongoing support, praising the country for its "unconditional support" in various regional and international forums, as well as for establishing its consulate in Dakhla. This renewed declaration strengthens the diplomatic ties between Rabat and Conakry, while reaffirming Guinea's position on the disputed Sahara issue.