New Diplomatic Momentum: Portugal Supports Morocco’s Autonomy Framework for Sahara

Lisbon bolsters regional diplomacy with full endorsement, while humanitarian stakes rise

📰 Lisbon Backs Rabat in Key Diplomatic Shift

A fresh wave of cautious optimism emerged across Western Sahara this week after Portugal reaffirmed its support for Morocco’s 2007 autonomy initiative. In an official visit to Lisbon on July 22, 2025, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita was welcomed by his Portuguese counterpart Paulo Rangel, with both sides issuing a joint declaration calling the autonomy proposal the “most serious, credible, and constructive” solution to the long-standing dispute.

This development places Portugal among a growing list of European nations—including France, Spain, and the United Kingdom—that have shifted toward supporting Morocco’s framework for peace under United Nations auspices.

📌 Key Facts & Diplomatic Milestones

• Date of meeting: July 22, 2025, Lisbon
• Officials present: Paulo Rangel (Portugal), Nasser Bourita (Morocco)
• Official statement: Portugal affirms Morocco’s autonomy initiative as a solid basis for resolving the Sahara conflict under the UN framework
• What the plan entails: Autonomy for Western Sahara under Moroccan sovereignty, with elected local governance over civil matters, while Morocco retains control of defense, diplomacy, and religion
• Portugal’s position: Stops short of full sovereignty recognition but aligns with other European partners

The endorsement signals a notable step in Portugal’s foreign policy approach and adds momentum to Morocco’s international diplomatic strategy.

🗣️ Voices and Perspectives

Speaking in Lisbon, Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel said:

“Following moves by France, Spain, and the United Kingdom, Portugal affirms that Morocco’s autonomy plan is the most serious basis for a solution—within the framework of the United Nations.”

Political expert José Tomaz Castello Branco noted:

“This positions Portugal firmly among European allies favoring a political resolution. It also leaves room for Lisbon to adjust its position as the UN process unfolds.”

🧍‍♂️ Human Impact on the Ground

For residents of Western Sahara, especially those in refugee camps or under uncertain administrative conditions, this diplomatic recognition brings a renewed sense of hope. Humanitarian groups have welcomed the news, noting that political stabilization could finally unlock sustained access to healthcare, education, and infrastructure development—long impeded by regional instability.

However, the Polisario Front—a separatist group backed by Algeria—remains opposed to the plan, insisting on full independence for the Sahrawi people. Activists warn that any plan must be implemented with guarantees of rights, dignity, and local agency.

🌍 Background: A Conflict Spanning Decades

The Western Sahara conflict began in 1975 after Spain’s withdrawal. Morocco took administrative control of the territory, but the Polisario Front declared the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) in 1976, leading to years of conflict and ongoing diplomatic gridlock.

Morocco’s autonomy plan—first submitted to the UN in 2007—has steadily gained support. With endorsements from the United States, France, Spain, and now Portugal, Rabat is strengthening its international posture.

🔎 Why This Matters Globally

• UN Process: Portugal’s statement supports a UN-based political resolution, increasing pressure on the Polisario Front and Algeria to return to the negotiation table.
• Regional Stability: The plan’s implementation could unlock broader cooperation in North Africa and reduce tensions in the Maghreb.
• Diplomatic Strategy: Morocco’s proactive diplomacy continues to shift global narratives in its favor.

⏭️ What Comes Next

UN-led discussions will likely intensify in the coming months, as Morocco leverages Portugal’s endorsement to push for more international backing. Whether this builds toward a lasting solution or faces renewed resistance remains to be seen. For now, the diplomatic tide appears to be turning in favor of autonomy with stability over prolonged conflict.