France has backed a plan for the autonomy of the long-disputed Western Sahara territory under Moroccan sovereignty, a diplomatic shift that immediately provoked condemnation from Algeria, a former French colony and Morocco’s rival in the region.
In a letter to King Mohammed VI of Morocco that was made public on Tuesday, President Emmanuel Macron of France said that Morocco’s plan was “the only basis for achieving a just, lasting and negotiated political solution in accordance with the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council.”That was a notable departure from France’s prior position.
The French authorities previously argued that Morocco’s plan for autonomy, which was put forward in 2007, was a “serious and credible” basis for discussion, but not the only one.
Excerpts from Mr. Macron’s letter, which were sent to the king on the 25th anniversary of his ascension of the throne, were made public on Tuesday by Mr. Macron’s office.
Persons:
King Mohammed VI of, Emmanuel Macron
Organizations:
United Nations Security Council
Locations:
France, Sahara, Algeria, French, King Mohammed VI of Morocco