São Tomé and Príncipe Backs Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as ‘Only Credible Solution’

Rabat – São Tomé and Príncipe has reaffirmed its support for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for the Western Sahara, calling it “the only credible and realistic solution” for the regional dispute.

Foreign Minister Ilza Maria dos Santos Amado Vaz reiterated her country’s position during a joint press conference with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita held today in Rabat.

She further described Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as a “serious, credible, and durable” solution to the Western Sahara dispute.

The minister also welcomed the growing international consensus around the autonomy initiative, pointing to its seriousness and sustainability in achieving a political resolution.

Amado Vaz further underlined her country’s support for Morocco’s territorial integrity, explicitly including the Sahara region. She lauded recent diplomatic momentum under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, noting that international backing for Morocco’s autonomy initiative continues to expand. 

She also referenced the importance of the recent UN Security Council Resolution 2797, which positions the autonomy plan as the only serious and credible basis for a lasting solution.

Meanwhile, Bourita expressed appreciation for São Tomé and Príncipe’s “steadfast position” in supporting Morocco’s territorial integrity, including its southern provinces. He thanked the island nation for backing Morocco’s positions in international forums, including at the United Nations, and for supporting Moroccan candidacies.

During their talks earlier in the day, the Moroccan minister briefed his counterpart on recent developments regarding the Western Sahara, emphasizing the increasing number of countries aligning with Morocco’s autonomy proposal. 

Several African and international partners have reaffirmed similar positions. Notably, Mali has withdrawn its recognition of the self-proclaimed  Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) and expressed support for Morocco’s autonomy plan.

Morocco, São Tomé and Príncipe deepen cooperation ties

Beyond the Sahara dispute, the two ministers discussed the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation. They reviewed the implementation of the 2025-2027 roadmap they signed in Rabat last year, assessing progress made and identifying areas needing further work. 

They agreed to establish mechanisms to monitor the roadmap’s implementation and outcomes and ensure better follow-up.

Economic cooperation also featured prominently in the discussions. The two sides agreed to intensify exchanges between public and private sectors, to build  a mutually beneficial strategic partnership. Amado Vaz is also scheduled to meet Moroccan business leaders tomorrow to explore investment opportunities and boost trade relations.

Additionally, the ministers announced plans to convene a joint commission meeting next year in Laayoune, which is expected to serve as a key platform for advancing bilateral projects.

Amado Vaz noted that her visit reflects the strength of ties between the two countries, describing their relationship as one based on friendship, solidarity, and shared development goals. She also highlighted the importance of South-South cooperation and Africa-led initiatives for peace, stability, and economic growth.

The meeting builds on steadily growing relations between Morocco and São Tomé and Príncipe, particularly since the latter opened a consulate in Laayoune in 2020. Both countries have since sought to position their partnership as a model of African cooperation rooted in mutual respect and shared interests.

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