Chile recognises Morocco’s sovereignty over Sahara, backs autonomy plan

Chile has formally endorsed Morocco's sovereignty over the Sahara region and backed its autonomy proposal as a viable political solution to the longstanding territorial dispute. This stance was outlined in a joint statement released following talks between Moroccan and Chilean officials in New York on Monday. Chile affirmed its backing for Morocco's complete control over the Sahara, including its inclusion within the Kingdom's territorial boundaries.

Moreover, Chile recognized Morocco's 2007 autonomy plan as the "just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution," marking a significant step in resolving the decades-old conflict.

The statement was made in the wake of a meeting between Morocco's Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, and his Chilean counterpart, Francisco Pérez Mackenna. The two foreign ministers engaged in discussions with Chilean President José Antonio Kast in attendance. Chile pledged to translate this political support into practical action, with a focus on bolstering economic and trade ties in Morocco's Sahara territory.

The communiqué emphasized the objective of enhancing investment, trade, and overall development within the region.

Furthermore, Chile expressed its alignment with Security Council Resolution 2797/2025, which supported Morocco's autonomy proposal and called for negotiations without preconditions, adhering to the Moroccan plan to achieve a definitive political resolution that all parties could accept. Additionally, the foreign ministers signed Terms of Reference to initiate negotiations on a free trade agreement between Morocco and Chile, further integrating a commercial dimension into their burgeoning bilateral relationship.

This move solidifies the economic collaboration between the nations, complementing their political alignment on the Sahara issue.