Denmark has formally expressed its support for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan, presented in 2007, as a “serious and credible contribution” to resolving the longstanding conflict in the Moroccan Sahara.
The endorsement was announced in a joint statement following a high-level meeting between Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen and his Moroccan counterpart, Nasser Bourita, on the sidelines of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Wednesday.
Denmark’s backing comes as part of growing international momentum in favor of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara, bolstered by ongoing UN-led peace efforts.
As a Nordic country, Denmark’s support for Morocco’s Autonomy Initiative is especially significant as it signals that support for Morocco on the Sahara dossier is not only confined to European and African countries.
According to the joint statement, Denmark views the Autonomy Plan as a solid foundation for negotiations between all parties involved and a path toward a peaceful, mutually acceptable solution.
The plan, which offers significant self-governance for Sahara regions under Moroccan sovereignty, has been widely regarded as one of the most viable proposals for ending the decades-long territorial dispute.
Both ministers also reiterated their countries’ strong support for the work of Staffan de Mistura, the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for the Sahara. De Mistura has been actively involved in facilitating dialogue between the parties in line with UN Security Council resolutions.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The meeting between the two diplomats also spotlighted the “historical and excellent” bilateral ties between Denmark and Morocco, with both countries reaffirming the strategic importance of their partnership.
The joint statement outlined a commitment to expanding cooperation in key areas such as trade, investment, renewable energy, water management, and logistics. Both countries agreed to intensify political consultations aimed at promoting mutual interests and addressing global challenges.
Denmark noted Morocco’s role as a vital hub of stability in North Africa and a key partner in advancing development across the African continent. Minister Rasmussen pointed out Denmark’s strategic interest in deepening collaboration on economic and security issues, particularly in the context of Morocco’s regional influence.
Focus on Africa
The discussions also extended to Africa, with Denmark expressing a strong interest in King Mohammed VI’s “Royal Initiative” to promote access to the Atlantic Ocean for landlocked Sahel countries.
Launched in November 2023, this initiative seeks to strengthen economic ties between the Sahel and Morocco, potentially opening new trade routes and fostering regional stability.
Denmark’s commitment to Africa was further reinforced through its “Africa’s Century” strategy, launched in August 2024. The initiative aims to bolster Denmark’s engagement across the continent, focusing on sustainable development, economic growth, and peacebuilding efforts.
The joint statement reaffirmed the importance of Denmark’s partnership with Morocco in driving growth and development across the Sahel and the wider African region.