More than 30 British MPs, Lords urge government to recognise Morocco’s autonomy plan

LONDON - More than 30 British MPs and lords called on Foreign Secretary David Cameron to recognize Morocco’s autonomy plan as the only viable, serious and realistic solution to the Western Sahara conflict.

In a letter to Cameron, 31 MPs and lords said that the autonomy initiative proposed by Morocco for Western Sahara, balanced with respect for local traditions and democratic aspirations, offers a viable path towards lasting peace and stability.

“Amid the vast turmoil we are witnessing globally, it has become more crucial than ever for the UK to strengthen its alliances with stable like-minded nations to promote regional stability and international security,” said the letter, adding that Morocco was a top strategic ally in North Africa with shared values and perspectives crucial to both their countries in the midst of a growing global turmoil.

“The Western Sahara region offers a promise and opportunity for progress and stability, but this could be put at risk if we do not resolve this issue quickly in pragmatically. There should be no space for further separatism or division,” the letter said, calling for the reinforcement of Morocco's proactive engagement in fostering regional security and stability.

“The country's efforts have not only significantly contributed to strengthening alliances that are pivotal for ensuring peace and prosperity across Africa in the Middle East, but also as part of a global security architecture that addresses challenges like radicalization, terrorism and migration crises,” it noted.

The letter hailed Morocco’s efforts in promoting regional security and stability that have not only significantly contributed to strengthening alliances that are pivotal for ensuring peace and prosperity across Africa in the Middle East, but also as part of a global security architecture that addresses challenges like radicalization, terrorism and migration crises.

In the last two decades, the North African Kingdom has made significant efforts to fight extremism thanks to its tridimensional counterterrorism strategy based on enhancing security, socio-economic development policies and supporting the religious field.