Morocco’s Foreign Affairs Minister Nasser Bourita stated on Tuesday that Morocco “will not comment on the recent rulings of the European Court of Justice,” noting that Morocco “is not a party to the matter.”
During a press conference with the President of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo, Bourita stated that what concerns him the most are “the implications of the decision for the Sahara issue and trade relations with the European Union.”
“The Sahara issue should only be discussed in the United Nations Security Council,” he declared, noting that he considers the UNSC “the only appropriate venue for addressing this matter.”
The FM criticized the judges who issued the ruling, accusing them of having demonstrated only a “superficial” understanding of the complexities of the Sahara matter. He pointed out that the dynamics supporting Morocco’s sovereignty are evident, and 19 EU countries have clearly expressed their positions in support of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara.
Bourita asserted that developments in Luxembourg “do not affect” the Sahara issue.European positions have not gained traction in international forums, and he characterized the recent ruling as “isolated” given the current positions of the European Union, including that of High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell.
Bourita stated categorically that Morocco will “never engage in any partnership that undermines its sovereignty over its territory.” He said Morocco’s position regarding the Sahara issue is “clear and steadfast,” and Morocco is ready to face any challenges concerning its sovereignty over all its territories.