- Conakry Reiterates Backing for Moroccan Autonomy Initiative as Sole Solution to Sahara Dispute
CONAKRY, Guinea: The Republic of Guinea has reaffirmed its firm, consistent and unwavering support for the Moroccanness of the Sahara and Morocco’s sovereignty over the territory, during the eighth session of the Morocco-Guinea Joint Cooperation Commission held Tuesday in Conakry.
The session was co-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.
Guinea Backs Autonomy Under Moroccan Sovereignty
In his opening remarks, Minister Kouyaté reiterated Guinea’s longstanding position, stressing that his country “reaffirms its steadfast and unwavering support for the Moroccanness of the Sahara and for Morocco’s sovereignty over this part of its territory.”
He further emphasized Guinea’s support for autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty, describing the Moroccan autonomy initiative presented to the United Nations Security Council as the sole viable solution to the dispute.
Kouyaté said Guinea’s position reflects its principled commitment to Morocco’s territorial sovereignty and territorial integrity, while highlighting the importance of achieving a lasting and mutually acceptable settlement within the framework of the United Nations.
Dakhla Consulate Symbol of Solidarity
The Guinean Foreign Minister also pointed to the opening of Guinea’s Consulate General in Dakhla in January 2020 as a concrete manifestation of his country’s position.
He described the diplomatic mission as a symbol of Guinea’s unwavering solidarity with Morocco and a reflection of the strong political ties between the two African nations.
Bourita Welcomes Guinea’s Consistent Position
For his part, Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita expressed the Moroccan government’s appreciation for Guinea’s consistent and unconditional support for Morocco’s position on the Sahara issue.
Bourita highlighted Guinea’s positions in various regional and international forums, as well as the establishment of its Consulate General in Dakhla, as clear expressions of the depth of bilateral relations and Conakry’s support for Morocco’s territorial integrity.
Strengthening Morocco-Guinea Strategic Partnership
The eighth session of the Joint Cooperation Commission also underscored the broader commitment of Morocco and Guinea to strengthening their strategic partnership across political, economic and development spheres.
The reaffirmation of Guinea’s position on the Sahara issue further reflects the close ties between Rabat and Conakry and their shared interest in advancing cooperation and solidarity across Africa.
BY: The Times Union
