The recent decision by the Dominican Republic to support Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara, along with the opening of a general consulate in Dakhla, has created a diplomatic earthquake in the Caribbean and Latin American regions. This move prompted the Polisario Front to issue a condemnation statement, reflecting the substantial impact this new stance has had on the regional situation.
The Impact of the Dominican Stance
In a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic, the support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara was reaffirmed, aligning with the statements made by Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita. Mohamed Zarouk, regarded as the “ambassador of Polisario” in the Caribbean, quickly responded with a condemnation, asserting the “inalienable right of the Sahrawi people to self-determination,” highlighting the confusion caused within the Polisario ranks.
The Dominican Republic’s announcement is the third of its kind in the Caribbean and Latin American regions, following Haiti and Suriname, both of which have recognized Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara and established diplomatic representations in Dakhla. These moves signify a notable shift in a region once considered a stronghold of separatist propaganda.
Effective Moroccan Diplomacy
These results are attributed to effective Moroccan diplomacy, which is based on building mutually beneficial relationships and emphasizing the Sahara issue as a central element of its diplomatic strategy. Morocco has succeeded in altering the positions of some countries that previously supported separatism for ideological reasons stemming from international alignments during the Cold War.
Political expert Mohamed Salem Abdel Fattah believes that this shift reflects Morocco’s success in achieving a significant diplomatic breakthrough in a region once considered a bastion of separatist propaganda. He notes that the U.S. recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara, along with Spain’s stance as the former colonial power of the region, has influenced Spanish-speaking countries in the Caribbean and Latin America.
The Repercussions of the Dominican Stance
The Dominican Republic’s position is expected to bolster efforts to contain separatist propaganda, particularly as some regimes still supporting separatism, like Venezuela, are experiencing political decline. This move could also encourage other countries in the Caribbean and Latin America to take similar stances, thereby withdrawing the remaining support for the so-called “Polisario Front” and strengthening Morocco’s position on the international stage.
In summary, the Dominican Republic’s decision marks a significant turning point in the diplomatic struggle over Western Sahara, reflecting a strategic shift in international positions and reinforcing Morocco’s sovereignty over the region.
