Algeria: Morocco's King calls for ‘sincere dialogue’ amid tensions

Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has reiterated his call for improved relations with Algeria, describing the neighbouring country as a “sibling nation” with shared cultural and historical ties, The National reported on July 30th via the AFP. The comments came during his Throne Day speech on July 30th, marking his 26th year in power.

“Morocco is open to sincere dialogue with Algeria over a number of topics,” the monarch said, adding, “The Algerian people are a sibling nation, who share with the people of Morocco deep-rooted human and historical ties.” He emphasised language, religion, geography, and “a shared fate” as key unifying elements.

Diplomatic ties between the two North African states have been severed since 2021, largely due to Algeria’s opposition to Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara region. Algeria supports the Polisario Front, which seeks independence for the territory. The region, home to over 600,000 people, has been listed as a “non-self-governing territory” by the UN since 1963.

Rabat’s autonomy proposal for the region—first introduced to the UN in 2007—has gained momentum, with the UK becoming the latest permanent UN Security Council member to endorse it. On June 2nd, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy called the Moroccan plan “the most credible, viable and pragmatic” solution. France, the US, Spain, and Germany have issued similar endorsements.

The plan would grant the Sahara local autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty, allowing for a regional parliament and budget, while Rabat would retain control over defence and foreign affairs. Algeria has dismissed the proposal as “empty of content” and criticised the UK’s policy shift.

King Mohammed VI described the rift as a “tragic situation” and expressed hope that both nations could overcome it through unity. Despite rising international support for Morocco’s Sahara plan, regional reconciliation remains uncertain as Algeria continues to reject Rabat’s sovereignty and refuses to restore diplomatic ties.

The National, AFP, Maghrebi