Lisbon: Portugal has officially expressed its support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative, viewing it as the most serious, credible, and constructive basis for resolving the ongoing dispute over the Moroccan Sahara. This position was articulated in a Joint Statement signed by Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, and Portugal’s Minister of State and Foreign Affairs, Paulo Rangel, following their meeting in Lisbon.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, the Joint Statement highlights Portugal’s recognition of the issue’s significance to Morocco and acknowledges the serious and credible efforts made by the Kingdom within the United Nations framework. These efforts aim to achieve a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution.

The ministers reiterated their support for UN Security Council Resolution 2756, which underscores the necessity for the involved parties to pursue a realistic, pragmatic, and enduring political solution based on compromise. This document further solidifies Portugal’s new stance, sending a clear message of its alignment with the international consensus favoring Morocco’s autonomy plan. This position aligns with the international momentum fostered by His Majesty King Mohammed VI.