Slovakia Reiterates Support for Morocco's Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara
Rabat – Slovakia has reaffirmed its backing of Morocco's Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara as a basis for resolving the long-standing dispute, according to a joint declaration between the two countries.
The statement came during the official visit of Slovak Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Juraj Blanár to Rabat today, where he was welcomed by Morocco's Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita.
The visit marks the 32nd anniversary of diplomatic ties between Morocco and Slovakia, with both ministers expressing satisfaction over the depth of their countries' cooperation.
'Slovakia acknowledges the 'Moroccan initiative,' presented to UN Secretary General on April 11th 2007, as a basis for a definitive solution under the auspices of the United Nations,' reads the declaration.
In addition, Slovakia welcomed the 'serious and credible Moroccan efforts to move the political process forward towards resolution and supports reaching a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution, based on compromise,' in line with the principles of the United Nations Charter.
The statement also expressed Slovakia's support for UN Security Council Resolution 2756 and reaffirmed the key role of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) in maintaining peace and supporting the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General.
Stronger political and economic ties
The visit was also an opportunity to deepen cooperation across various areas, including renewable energy, green technologies, agriculture, automotive manufacturing, logistics, and environmental protection. The two ministers signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a Political Consultations Mechanism, aimed at boosting regular diplomatic dialogue.
Both sides agreed to launch regular Economic Forums to bring together business leaders from both countries. Special emphasis was placed on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), encouraging innovation, and building capacity to increase their access to markets and financing.
The ministers also expressed their intention to streamline investment procedures and customs operations to facilitate cross-border trade and investment.
Morocco and Slovakia committed to expanding cooperation in cultural, academic, and scientific fields. This includes promoting human development, enhancing civil society ties, and fostering research and innovation in areas like the blue economy. Bilateral academic initiatives and partnerships between universities and research institutions are expected to be boosted as part of this shared vision.
The two countries also reaffirmed their shared commitment to multilateralism, international law, and the United Nations Charter. Morocco and Slovakia pledged mutual support for each other's candidacies as non-permanent members of the UN Security Council for the 2028–2029 term. Both sides expressed the importance of coordination among non-permanent members to effectively address global challenges.
Read also: Polisario Ignored, Isolated, and Irrelevant at AU-EU Summit
Slovakia also expressed its continued support for Morocco within the European Union and welcomed the dialogue between the Visegrád Group and Morocco. Bratislava reaffirmed its commitment to promoting triangular cooperation between the Visegrád countries, Morocco, and African partners.
Beyond economic and diplomatic matters, Morocco and Slovakia agreed to strengthen cooperation in internal security, crisis management, and law enforcement. Areas of collaboration include combating terrorism, cybercrime, human trafficking, organized crime, money laundering, and corruption.
They pledged to work together to curb illegal migration and human smuggling, while promoting legal and safe migration pathways.
The ministers exchanged views on the security situation in the Sahel and broader challenges facing Africa. Slovakia welcomed Morocco's leadership within the African Union on migration issues, and commended King Mohammed VI's initiatives for the continent.
The two ministers concluded their meeting by reiterating their countries' commitment to global peace, sustainable development, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. Tags: politicsslovakia and MoroccoWestern sahara
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