Sahara: Japan Supports Autonomy Under Moroccan Sovereignty
On Friday, Japan welcomed the adoption of UN Security Council resolution 2797, stating that “true autonomy, under Moroccan sovereignty, could be one of the most feasible solutions” to the dispute over Western Sahara. Tokyo also expressed its intent to align its diplomatic and economic actions with this position.
This stance was outlined in a joint statement signed by Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and his Japanese counterpart, Motegi Toshimitsu, during the celebration of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Morocco and Japan.
Japan reiterated its support for the UN’s efforts to achieve a sustainable political solution based on Morocco’s autonomy plan, urging the involved parties to engage in discussions without preconditions.
This declaration marks a new international endorsement of Morocco’s autonomy initiative, which is promoted in accordance with the Vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. Tokyo joins several powers that view autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty as the most credible solution to this regional dispute.
Tokyo Lauds Royal Atlantic Initiatives
Japan also praised the Royal Atlantic Initiatives launched by His Majesty King Mohammed VI aimed at promoting peace, stability, and development in Africa, particularly the Initiative for Atlantic African States, the Africa-Atlantic Pipeline, and the Initiative for Sahel countries’ access to the Atlantic Ocean.
Morocco-Japan: 70 Years of Strategic Partnership
The two countries will celebrate the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2026. Discussions between Nasser Bourita and Motegi Toshimitsu reaffirmed the strength of the Morocco-Japan partnership and both nations’ commitment to enhancing their political, economic, cultural, and African cooperation.
On this occasion, the two ministers symbolically exchanged football jerseys emblazoned with the number 70, celebrating this historic anniversary.
