The Central American Parliament Reaffirms Its Support for Morocco’s Territorial Integrity and the Autonomy Initiative for the Sahara
Central American Parliament Affirms Support for Morocco’s Territorial Integrity
In a statement adopted in Laâyoune at the conclusion of a joint meeting celebrating the 10th anniversary of Morocco’s membership in the Central American Parliament (Parlacen) as a permanent observer, the Parlacen reiterated its respect for the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Morocco and its sovereignty over all its territories. The body endorsed the Moroccan autonomy initiative as a "realistic and credible solution" to the ongoing dispute regarding the Sahara.
The "Laâyoune Declaration," signed by the President of the House of Councillors, Mohamed Ould Errachid, and the President of Parlacen, Carlos René Hernández, highlights the socio-economic development efforts observed in Morocco’s southern provinces. This aligns fully with the principles of the Parlacen: respect for state sovereignty, non-interference, dialogue, and peaceful solutions.
The declaration also underscores the significance of Morocco’s Atlantic initiative aimed at connecting Sahel countries to the Atlantic Ocean, positioning the Kingdom’s Atlantic coastline as a strategic logistical hub for Central America, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
Both parties expressed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation, coordinating in international forums, and supporting the organization of the regional immigration forum scheduled for later this month in the Dominican Republic.
Furthermore, emphasis was placed on the necessity of joint action to realize the objectives of the South-South Parliamentary Dialogue Forum, the secretariat of which is now operational within the House of Councillors.
The document highlights Morocco’s central role in the region as a strategic partner for Africa and the Arab world, owing to its geostrategic position and the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. The relations between the Kingdom and Central American countries are based on a foundation of mutual respect and consultation.
Since 2015, Morocco has been the first Maghreb, African, and Arab country to join Parlacen as a permanent observer. This collaboration has facilitated the establishment of the Afro-Latin American Parliamentary Forum (AFROLAC), whose secretariat is also located in Rabat.
Lastly, the declaration stresses the strategic importance of South-South cooperation in light of current geopolitical upheavals, positioning it as a cornerstone of diplomatic relations between both regions, promoting sustainable development, dialogue, and solidarity among peoples.
