By: Julius Konton
Germany has reaffirmed its support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative as the most viable path toward resolving the long-standing dispute over the Sahara, signaling a deepening alignment with Rabat on both diplomatic and economic fronts.
The position was outlined in a joint declaration issued at the conclusion of the second session of the Morocco-Germany Multidimensional Strategic Dialogue, held Thursday in Rabat between Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and his German counterpart Johann Wadephul.
Germany Backs Autonomy Under Moroccan Sovereignty
In the declaration, the Germany emphasized that “genuine autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty” represents the most feasible solution to the decades-long regional dispute over the Western Sahara.
Berlin reiterated that Morocco’s 2007 autonomy proposal constitutes a “serious and credible basis” for negotiations toward a lasting and mutually acceptable resolution.
Germany also welcomed United Nations
Security Council Resolution 2797, adopted on October 31, 2025, which reinforced the role of realism and compromise in advancing the political process.
Historical Context of the Dispute
The Western Sahara conflict dates back to 1975, following Spain’s withdrawal from the territory. Morocco subsequently asserted sovereignty, while the Polisario Front backed by Algeria declared the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic and sought independence.
A UN-brokered ceasefire in 1991 halted active hostilities, but a final political settlement has remained elusive for over three decades.
The United Nations has since led efforts to facilitate negotiations, including proposals for a referendum and, more recently, political autonomy frameworks.
Today, the region remains sparsely populated, with an estimated population of around 600,000 people, and is strategically significant due to its rich phosphate reserves and access to Atlantic fishing grounds.
Morocco has invested billions of dollars in infrastructure and development projects in the territory, including renewable energy and port expansion initiatives.
Growing International Support for Morocco’s Plan
Germany’s renewed stance aligns it with a growing number of countries including the United States, Spain, and several Arab and African nations that have expressed support for Morocco’s autonomy plan in recent years.
Analysts view Berlin’s position as particularly significant given Germany’s influence within the European Union, where consensus on the Sahara issue has historically been fragmented.
Commitment to Diplomatic and Economic Engagement
The joint declaration further states that Germany intends to “act in accordance with this stance on the diplomatic and economic fronts,” in full respect of international law.
This includes strengthening bilateral cooperation with Morocco across trade, investment, and sustainable development sectors.
Trade between Morocco and Germany has grown steadily, reaching approximately €4.5 billion annually in recent years, with Germany ranking among Morocco’s top European economic partners.
Key sectors include automotive manufacturing, renewable energy, and industrial technology.
Germany also reiterated its support for the efforts of the UN Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy to facilitate negotiations, welcoming Morocco’s willingness to further clarify the practical framework of autonomy under its sovereignty.
Strategic Implications
The reaffirmation underscores a broader geopolitical shift, as major international actors increasingly prioritize pragmatic solutions over prolonged stalemates.
By endorsing Morocco’s autonomy initiative, Germany signals its preference for a negotiated settlement rooted in regional stability and economic integration.
For Morocco, the backing of a major
European power strengthens its diplomatic momentum and reinforces its argument that autonomy under its sovereignty offers a realistic and sustainable path forward.
As the United Nations continues its mediation efforts, Germany’s position is expected to influence future discussions within international forums and may contribute to renewed momentum in resolving one of Africa’s longest-running territorial disputes.
