Guatemala has reaffirmed its firm support for Morocco’s territorial integrity during a session of the United Nations Special Committee on Decolonization (C24), held recently in New York. The Central American nation called for a political resolution to the long-running dispute over Western Sahara and highlighted Morocco’s 2007 Autonomy Plan as the most viable route forward.
Delivering her country’s statement, the Guatemalan diplomat described the Autonomy Plan as both “realistic” and “credible,” emphasizing its potential to serve as a solid foundation for a negotiated settlement between the parties involved. She underscored the importance of preserving Morocco’s national unity and its sovereign rights over the disputed territory.
The statement aligns with Guatemala’s consistent diplomatic approach at international forums, where it has championed peaceful dialogue and the promotion of regional stability. According to the representative, Morocco’s approach offers a constructive basis for advancing negotiations that have for years been stalled.
Guatemala also expressed its confidence in Morocco’s commitment to finding common ground and working toward a lasting solution to the Western Sahara issue. The delegate acknowledged the efforts of the United Nations Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy in revitalizing the political process, which has seen limited progress in recent years.
In her remarks, the diplomat went beyond standard diplomatic language to point to concrete steps Morocco has taken in the region. She noted that the North African country is not only making political overtures but is also implementing real changes aimed at transforming the southern provinces.
Highlighting Morocco’s development drive, she pointed to investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare as clear indicators of the country’s determination to improve living standards in the region and secure its long-term stability.
Guatemala’s position was further emphasized by its decision in December 2022 to open a consulate general in the city of Dakhla. This move, the diplomat said, was not merely symbolic but a tangible demonstration of Guatemala’s deepening partnership with Morocco and its enduring support for a peaceful and sovereign solution.
In a parallel development, Panama also used the UN platform to voice its support for Morocco’s territorial claims. The Panamanian delegation echoed Guatemala’s position, describing the Autonomy Plan as the most serious and credible initiative to bring about a just and lasting resolution to the Western Sahara conflict.
Both countries’ declarations underscore growing international backing for Morocco’s territorial integrity and its proposed political solution, amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve one of Africa’s longest-standing territorial disputes.