Colombia recognizes Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara

Bogotá, Colombia – The new administration of right-wing President Abelardo de la Espriella has dramatically shifted Colombia's foreign policy, announcing its recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara. The decision, revealed by the Foreign Ministry on Friday, marks a stark reversal from the previous government's stance.

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With this decision, Colombia seeks to revitalize its relationship with Morocco on the basis of a long-term vision and with the conviction that bilateral rapprochement will fully serve the interests of the Colombian people.

Vice President José Manuel Restrepo and Foreign Minister Omar Bula Escobar conveyed the new policy during a meeting with Moroccan Foreign Minister Naser Bourita, who attended de la Espriella's inauguration in Cali. The Foreign Ministry stated that this decision seeks to "revitalize its relationship with Morocco on the basis of a long-term vision and with the conviction that bilateral rapprochement will fully serve the interests of the Colombian people."

This abrupt change contrasts sharply with the policies of former President Gustavo Petro, whose government re-established diplomatic ties with the Sahrawi Republic just four years ago. Morocco has controlled about 80% of Western Sahara since Spain's withdrawal in 1975 and presented an autonomy plan to the UN in 2007. Vice President Restrepo indicated that Colombia and Morocco will "build a new beginning in the bilateral relationship" through closer political and economic ties, including exploring a Free Trade Agreement and boosting Moroccan investments in Colombia.

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Colombia and Morocco will build a new beginning in the bilateral relationship through a closer political and economic link.

Foreign Minister Bula emphasized the recognition of Moroccan sovereignty in the "south of the country," with a formal declaration planned for Saturday. Moroccan Foreign Minister Bourita hailed the decision as "historic," stating it would significantly boost bilateral relations. Colombia and the Sahrawi Republic had established diplomatic relations in 1985, which were frozen in 2001 before being resumed by Petro's administration in August 2022.

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The recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over its Sahara is a historic decision that will give a great boost to the bilateral relationship.