Morocco and Côte d’Ivoire flags © DR
Diplomatic ties strengthen as Côte d’Ivoire endorses Morocco’s Sahara vision
The Republic of Côte d’Ivoire has publicly reaffirmed its unwavering support for Morocco’s full territorial integrity, including the Sahara region, during a high-level meeting in Rabat. This position was clearly articulated in a joint communiqué following talks between Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and his Ivorian counterpart, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Nialé Kaba, during her official visit to the Kingdom.
Nialé Kaba emphasized that Côte d’Ivoire’s backing remains steadfast and consistent, aligning closely with Morocco’s stance on the Sahara issue. The Ivorian foreign ministry confirmed that Abidjan shares Rabat’s view that the Moroccan proposal for regional autonomy represents the most credible path toward resolving the long-standing dispute.
International recognition grows for Morocco’s autonomy initiative
In a significant diplomatic milestone, Côte d’Ivoire also welcomed the United Nations Security Council’s adoption of Resolution 2797, which endorses Morocco’s autonomy plan as the most serious and viable foundation for a lasting solution. The Ivorian government further highlighted Morocco’s decision to open a consulate in Laâyoune in 2020, marking a concrete step in strengthening bilateral relations between the two African nations.
For his part, Nasser Bourita expressed Morocco’s deep gratitude for Côte d’Ivoire’s continuous support, underscoring the depth of the strategic partnership between Rabat and Abidjan. He noted that this relationship is built on mutual trust and a shared commitment to enhanced South-South cooperation, reinforcing economic, political, and cultural ties between the two countries.
