The United States has reaffirmed its recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara, describing the dispute as an unacceptable conflict that should not remain unresolved for decades.
Speaking to reporters in Rabat on Wednesday after talks with Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau said Washington maintains its position on the issue.
“The United States recognizes Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara,” Landau stated, adding that his country is working within the framework of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2797 to help achieve a peaceful settlement to the dispute, which he said has lasted too long.
He stressed the urgency of resolving the conflict, noting that “this situation cannot wait another 50 years or 150 years or 200 years to be resolved.”
Landau reiterated US support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative, describing it as “serious, credible and realistic” and the only basis for a just and lasting solution to the territorial dispute.
He also expressed US support for American companies seeking to invest in the Sahara region.
In a message posted on X, Landau said he had an “excellent meeting” with Bourita and reaffirmed Washington’s position on Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara and its backing of the autonomy plan as the foundation for a durable settlement.
He further welcomed Morocco’s accession as the 64th member of the Artemis Accords, which promotes responsible space exploration, and highlighted the long-standing ties between the United States and Morocco, noting nearly 250 years of bilateral relations.