Ecuador Backs Morocco’s Sovereignty Over Sahara, Deepens Ties

Rabat (GNP): Ecuador has reaffirmed its support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara and backed Rabat’s autonomy initiative as a viable solution. The move consolidates bilateral cooperation and opens new economic opportunities in the region.

Ecuador expressed unconditional support for the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Morocco over its entire territory, including the disputed Sahara region. The position was set out in a joint statement after talks in Rabat between Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and his Ecuadorian counterpart, Roberto Carlos Kury Pesantes.

The statement highlights Ecuador’s clear diplomatic alignment with Morocco in a territorial dispute that has caused significant tension on the international stage. By backing Moroccan sovereignty, Ecuador joins a small group of countries that formally recognize Morocco’s claim to the region, which has been in dispute for decades.

The joint statement also addresses how the conflict should be resolved. Ecuador considers the autonomy initiative that Morocco presented in 2007 to be the “only serious, credible, and realistic solution” to the conflict. The proposal envisages a self-governing regime for the region, which would remain part of the Kingdom of Morocco.

According to Ecuador, this is the most viable way to reach a fair and lasting understanding among the parties involved. The position matches Morocco’s long-held view that broad and effective autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty is the way to resolve a dispute that has marked relations in North Africa.

Ecuador’s support goes beyond formal recognition and extends to concrete steps within the bilateral framework. The two sides agreed that Ecuador’s ambassador to Morocco will visit the Sahara region, which demonstrates a tangible commitment to its diplomatic position. The decision is being implemented through coordination at the diplomatic, economic and consular levels.

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Morocco also expressed satisfaction with the continuation of Ecuador’s consular coverage nationwide, which strengthens channels of communication between the two countries. This rapprochement reinforces political dialogue and paves the way for stronger relations in strategic areas, with a clear focus on stability and respect for territorial sovereignty.

Economic cooperation is one of the most notable parts of the joint statement. Ecuador said it is willing to promote economic and trade cooperation opportunities in the Moroccan Sahara region. The approach aims to generate mutual benefits by exploring productive sectors, investment and trade, while broadening Ecuador’s prospects on the African continent.

The openness reflects Ecuador’s strategic interest in building its economic presence in Africa through ties that support productive development and regional integration. Cooperation in the Sahara could serve as a catalyst for new partnerships and joint projects, showing political support backed by tangible economic results.