Maria Malmer Stenergard in talks with Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs

The talks focused on bilateral cooperation and the Western Sahara issue. Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and the situation in Gaza were also discussed. 

There was an expression of appreciation for the two countries’ bilateral cooperation in a number of areas, including trade, migration and efforts to counter organised crime. 

Ms Malmer Stenergard emphasised the importance of a just, lasting and mutually acceptable solution to the Western Sahara issue, in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions and the UN Charter. She expressed full support for the UN Envoy for Western Sahara, Staffan de Mistura, and his work. 

During the talks, Ms Malmer Stenergard expressed her support for Morocco’s autonomy plan, in light of UN Security Council Resolution 2797, as a credible foundation for negotiations with a view to achieving a mutually acceptable, lasting and just political solution in accordance with the UN Charter, that provides for the right to self-determination of the people of Western Sahara. She further emphasised that she was looking forward to seeing Morocco’s updated proposal for the autonomy plan, and other constructive contributions from the parties. 

Statement from the Ministry for Foreign Affairs on the UN process on Western Sahara

The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to international law, including the UN Charter as an essential tool for achieving a peaceful solution to conflicts. They expressed their support for initiatives that respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and lead to a just and lasting peace. Gaza was also discussed, including the continued commitment to the implementation of the peace plan in accordance with international law and humanitarian principles, and to tangible steps being taken towards achieving a two-state solution.