In a decisive move, the European Parliament dissolved the “Western Sahara Group,” which supported the separatist Polisario Front, dealing a severe blow to one of Algeria and Polisario’s key tools within the European legislative institution. This step underscores the European Union’s commitment to its strategic partnership with Morocco and reflects its practical actions to safeguard the Kingdom’s interests against disruptive attempts led by hostile lobbies.
Does this decision signal the beginning of a real shift in EU policies toward Morocco?
At the outset of the current parliamentary session, Algeria and Polisario’s attempts to reestablish this group, which sought to influence EU positions and create internal divisions over the Moroccan Sahara issue, failed. While the Polisario Front tried to blame Spain’s Socialist Party for this decision, the reality lies in the refusal of three major parliamentary groups to support the separatist group.
Why did Algeria and Polisario fail to renew support for the group?
It is worth noting that the “Western Sahara Group,” which promoted separatist positions, sparked significant controversy within European circles. Many European figures and parties had warned against the group’s influence on the distinguished relations between the EU and Morocco. While the Polisario claimed that Spain’s Socialist Workers’ Party was behind freezing the group, the truth lies in the Social Democratic bloc’s withdrawal of support, leading to its dissolution in the European Parliament.
Will this development affect Morocco-EU relations?
Clearly, this decision bolsters the EU’s position in supporting Morocco in its national cause and reflects the EU’s response to the stance recently expressed by Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, who called for tangible actions affirming the EU’s commitment to its strategic relationship with the Kingdom.
How will this impact EU support for the Moroccan Sahara?
The European decision shatters many illusions propagated by the Polisario Front, especially after the European Court of Justice annulled agricultural and fishing agreements between Rabat and the EU. The Polisario had sought to exploit this opportunity to draw attention to itself. However, this decision demonstrates that the EU is not willing to be swayed by these false claims and continues to support Morocco’s sovereignty over its Sahara.
What future challenges might Moroccan diplomacy face?
Despite Morocco’s success in countering the plans of hostile lobbies, the question remains: Will Moroccan diplomacy continue to confront new attempts to disrupt its relations with the EU? Will there be greater efforts from Morocco to expand its economic and political partnerships with the European bloc?
