Mohammed VI: 26 Years of Commitment and Achievements

Nov 6, 1999
“We have committed ourselves to addressing the dossier of the Moroccan Sahara according to a new vision, allowing action with fairness, objectivity, and realism. Thus, by presiding over the meeting of the Royal Commission monitoring Saharan affairs, we gave our High instructions to allocate financial resources aimed at solving the unemployment problem in these provinces, facilitating transportation for students, and enabling the social integration of the disabled.”

Nov 6, 2000
“We are convinced that our loyal subjects held hostage in Tindouf fully understand that their future and glory can only be ensured in their homeland, Morocco, where they can live with dignity within the framework of authentic democracy enjoyed by all their brothers from different regions of the Kingdom.
We are determined to redouble efforts to mobilize all potential to guarantee a prosperous and peaceful life for all our subjects in these provinces, to make them a hub of economic and social prosperity, just as we expect for all regions of our Kingdom, where the southern regions have a foremost place with us.”

Nov 6, 2001
“We have ensured that Our attachment to the principles of dialogue, moderation, peace, and good neighborliness, and to the recourse to international legality arbitration, constitutes the most appropriate way to definitively end the artificial conflict stirred around the legitimate recovery of our Southern provinces. Morocco has shown goodwill and clear, firm political determination to cooperate with the international community, to overcome the deadlock that made the UN settlement plan inapplicable, due to artificial obstacles raised by the enemies of our territorial integrity.”

Nov 6, 2002
“During Our successive visits to these provinces, we renewed the pact that binds us to our loyal subjects, inquired directly about their situation, and launched numerous projects aimed at showcasing the highly promising human and natural assets of this region. It is in this perspective that we created the Agency for the Development of the Southern Provinces. It has developed an integrated development plan, including a series of ambitious projects to meet the realistic aspirations of their youth, especially access to productive employment and a dignified life.”

Nov 6, 2003
“Morocco, strengthened by national unanimity and its legitimate rights, will remain willing to fully contribute to any consensual, realistic, and definitive political solution, provided it takes into account its legitimate right to preserve the sovereignty of the Kingdom, its national unity, and territorial integrity, respecting and applying democratic principles. Any approach contrary to this imperative only strengthens national unanimity but risks plunging the whole region into instability, instead of promoting cooperation to eradicate terrorism and extremism threatening the entire Mediterranean area.”

Nov 6, 2004
We call on political parties, elected councils, and all vital forces of the nation to effectively invest in the action undertaken to advocate and defend the legitimacy of our territorial integrity cause, within an efficient action plan complementing the efforts of official diplomacy. I affirm, on behalf of Morocco, that regardless of temporary obstacles, we will achieve a consensual political solution for this artificial conflict, which is one of the major obstacles to realizing the grand development project envisioned. Only this solution aligns with the logic of History.

Nov 6, 2005
“We again call upon all national institutions and organizations to fulfill their mission in mobilizing public opinion and effectively supervising citizens on the ground to consolidate their massive, conscious, and responsible adherence to this wise orientation, within the unwavering national unanimity on the national question, and to mobilize additional international support in this regard. We also exhort them to be more vigilant and mobilized to lift the siege imposed on our citizens held hostage in the Tindouf camps. Indeed, their future lies in a democratic, united Morocco, capable of guaranteeing all conditions conducive to the exercise of full citizenship and a free and dignified life.”

Nov 6, 2006
“Since our accession to the Throne, we have remained firmly attached to these principles in managing the nation’s major files. Our approach has been that of authentic democracy, whose cardinal virtue is to enable the vital forces of the nation and directly concerned actors to invest themselves in handling these files through dialogue and consultation. As a result, decisions concerning major and determining questions for the nation are conceived and built from the grassroots, to be refined and finalized at the top. It is on these premises that Our initiative to grant our Southern provinces broad autonomy within the sovereignty of the Kingdom, its national unity, and territorial integrity was founded.”

Nov 6, 2007
“Morocco, based on a consultation approach at local and national levels and relying on unwavering unanimity, has presented a courageous initiative for autonomy, an initiative that meets international standards, respects international legality, and considers the sociocultural specificities of the region. We have made positive efforts to bring this project to life, motivated by a responsible, bold, and realistic spirit. Combined with the broad international support our constructive initiative has garnered, these efforts have led to a new UN approach to the treatment of our fundamental national cause. It is a wise approach that definitively sets aside all previous sterile plans.”

Nov 6, 2008
“To find a way out to this dispute, Morocco has demonstrated its sincere will to distinguish between the regional dispute over the Sahara and the desired development of bilateral relations with Algeria. Unfortunately, through its official position, this country seeks to hinder the virtuous dynamic initiated by the Moroccan Initiative. Indeed, it makes every effort to perpetuate the current situation, which threatens the balkanization of the Maghreb and Sahel regions, at a time when regional and international changes require unity to face major development challenges and security threats. Likewise, the stubborn refusal of all normalization efforts by Morocco, as well as those by fraternal and friendly countries and influential powers on the international stage, contradicts the logic of history and geography, which is incompatible with closing borders between two neighboring and brotherly countries.”

Nov 6, 2009
We affirm that there is no longer room for ambiguity and duplicity: either one is Moroccan, or one is not. The time for double games and dodging is over. The time is for clarity and assumed duty. One is either a patriot or a traitor. There is no middle ground between patriotism and betrayal. One cannot enjoy the rights of citizenship and simultaneously deny them by conspiring with the enemies of the homeland. As for the adversaries of our territorial integrity and those within their ranks, they know better than others that the Sahara is a crucial cause for the Moroccan people, united around its Throne, which is the depository and guarantor of its sovereignty, national unity, and territorial integrity.

Nov 6, 2010
“The time has passed for evasion where some could shirk their obligations. The hour of truth has come to reveal to the international community the horrors of repression, intimidation, humiliation, and torture inflicted on our compatriots in the Tindouf camps, flagrantly violating the most basic principles of international humanitarian law. In this dramatic situation, our loyal subjects in Tindouf, men and women, elders and children, increasingly and courageously express their growing opposition to repression and tyranny. Proof of this is that, despite the suffocating blockade imposed on them, they massively return to their homeland, Morocco, spontaneously aligning with the autonomy Initiative and the spirit of the advanced regionalization project.”

Nov 6, 2011
“Today, we commemorate the 36th anniversary of the Green March, in a national context marked by our country’s entry into a new constitutional era that consolidates its unitarian spirit and strengthens our specific model of democracy and development. Strong from the profound reforms undertaken by Morocco and the positive responsiveness of our country to ongoing changes, we are now more confident and determined to continue this ever-renewed march. Indeed, it is a matter of consolidating the territorial integrity of our country, strengthening the rule of law and institutions, and rooting good governance in all regions of the Kingdom. The primary beneficiaries of these advances are our Saharan provinces and their loyal sons, to whom the new Constitution grants new and substantial democratic gains. It thus enshrines Hassani as one of the constituent elements of the united Moroccan cultural identity and assigns the State responsibility to ensure its protection and development. It also makes advanced regionalization the pathway to good governance for these provinces.”

Nov 6, 2012
“We call for the development of an integrated and rigorous regional development model, applied on as large a scale as possible, aiming to create synergy and complementarity between sectoral programs. For it is a matter of meeting the various challenges facing the region and promoting the establishment of a regional economic system favorable to growth, wealth creation, and job creation, especially for youth. To ensure the success conditions of this ambitious project, and considering what the Economic, Social and Environmental Council has in terms of skills, duties, and plural composition, it is best suited to prepare it following a participatory approach allowing the participation of concerned populations and all national actors.”

Nov 6, 2013
“Contrary to allegations by Morocco’s adversaries regarding supposed exploitation of Sahara’s wealth, an important part of the resources and riches of the central and northern regions of Morocco is dedicated to meeting the needs of our Southern citizens, as confirmed by all economic indicators and data concerning this region. Wishing to strengthen this process, We intend to complete the development and implementation of the regional development model for our Southern provinces (…).
This is not a simple proposal of palliative solutions for an emergency situation nor isolated projects disconnected from each other, but rather an integrated developmental vision based on an objective analysis of the actual situation in our Southern provinces, to lay the founding bases of an integrated long-term policy in various fields. This model, we want it multidimensional, founded on attachment to the values of work and effort, merit and equality of opportunity, a future-oriented model where women and youth hold a special place.”

Nov 6, 2014
“The Sahara issue is not only the concern of the Sahrawis. The Sahara is the concern of all Moroccans. And, as I said in a previous speech: The Sahara is a question of existence, not a question of borders. Morocco will remain in its Sahara, and the Sahara will remain in its Morocco until the end of time (…).
Everyone knows the state of the Sahara before 1975. To those who ignore or pretend to ignore the truth, I offer these few since the recovery of our Sahara, for every dirham of the region’s revenues, Morocco invests 7 dirhams in its Sahara, within the framework of solidarity between its regions and among the children of the united Homeland. As for the human development indicators in the region, they were, in 1975, 6% lower compared to the northern regions of Morocco, and 51% lower compared to the national average in Spain. Today, these indicators in the Southern provinces far exceed the average of other regions of the Kingdom. That is why I say, with full responsibility: Enough mystification about alleged exploitation by Morocco of the region’s wealth!”

Nov 6, 2015
“Morocco refuses any adventure with uncertain and potentially dangerous consequences, or any other hollow proposal serving nothing but to torpedo the positive momentum initiated by the autonomy Initiative. Morocco will also oppose hostile campaigns targeting Moroccan economic products, with the same sense of sacrifice and commitment it demonstrates in political and security domains to defend its unity and sacred values. For those who, violating international law, want to boycott these products, they are free to do so. But they must bear the consequences of their decisions. Morocco has the right to open the door to its partners, states, and global companies to benefit from investment opportunities that the region will offer thanks to the great projects to be launched. Since We make no distinction between the North and South of the Kingdom, there is no difference for Us between the tomatoes of Agadir and those of Dakhla, the sardines of Larache and those of Boujdour, and the phosphate of Khouribga and that of Boucraa.”

Nov 6, 2016
“Addressing you today on the forty-first anniversary of the Green March, from the city of Dakar, capital of the sister Republic of Senegal, I know you will not be surprised by such a decision. Indeed, Senegal was among the states that participated in this national epic, alongside other African and Arab countries. This country, so dear to us, has always been at the forefront of defenders of the territorial integrity and the supreme interests of the Kingdom. (…)
Morocco’s reintegration into the African Union is not a tactical decision, nor is it the result of circumstantial calculations. It is rather the logical outcome of in-depth reflection. And when we announce our return, we do not ask anyone for permission to obtain our legitimate right. In any case, Morocco is back to regain its natural place.”

Nov 6, 2017
“As soon as Morocco gained its independence – long before the Sahara question was submitted to the United Nations in 1963 – while no claims were made for the liberation of the Sahara, except the legitimate demands then formulated by Morocco; better yet, long before Algeria became independent; prior to all these events, addressing the chieftains and representatives of Saharan tribes who came to pledge allegiance – the Beia –, Our grandfather emphasized Morocco’s historical and legitimate rights over its Sahara. He essentially declared: ‘We solemnly proclaim that we will continue our action for the return of our Sahara, within the respect of our historical rights and in accordance with the will of its inhabitants…’.
“Placed in the context of the time, this declaration is unambiguous, and no one can question its validity. More than a commitment, it is the expression of a lasting alliance between the Throne and the people. Moreover, this proclamation attests to the permanence of the Moroccan identity of the Sahara, long before the artificial staging of an unduly stirred conflict around this historical truth. Therefore, the Sahara will remain Moroccan until the end of time, and the sacrifices that may be necessary to ensure this matter little.”

Nov 6, 2018
“With full clarity and responsibility, I declare today Morocco’s willingness for direct and frank dialogue with sister Algeria, to overcome temporary and objective differences hindering the development of our relations.
To this end, I propose to our brothers in Algeria the creation of a joint political mechanism for dialogue and consultation. The level of representation in this structure, its format, and nature are to be agreed upon mutually. Morocco is open to any proposals and initiatives emanating from Algeria to defuse the deadlock in relations between the two neighboring brother countries. Under its mandate, this mechanism should engage in examining all bilateral issues with frankness, objectivity, sincerity, and good faith, without conditions or exceptions, according to an open agenda.”

Nov 6, 2019
“The Moroccan Sahara constitutes Morocco’s gateway to Sub-Saharan Africa. Since our accession to the Throne, we have placed our continent at the heart of our foreign policy. Thus, we have made numerous visits to its various countries and signed nearly a thousand agreements covering all areas of cooperation with them. This orientation has borne fruit, as Morocco now holds a prominent place in Africa in economic, political, cultural, and religious fields. Furthermore, we are determined to establish Morocco as a key player in building the Africa of tomorrow.
Our ambition also includes increasing trade exchanges and Moroccan investments across the continent. Ultimately, this aims to start a new phase based on mutually beneficial interests. To achieve these goals, Morocco must honor its commitments and continue strengthening its presence in Africa.”

Nov 7, 2020
“Morocco will remain firm on its positions and will not be swayed by sterile provocations and desperate maneuvers by other parties. Besides, it is clear that the decline of their outdated theses has pushed them into the typical scenario of running forward recklessly. In this regard, we reiterate our categorical rejection of unacceptable actions that seek to disrupt traffic flow between Morocco and Mauritania, alter the legal and historical status prevailing east of the security wall, or engage in unlawful exploitation of regional resources.
Morocco, true to itself, will not abandon the common sense and wisdom it is accustomed to. On the other hand, it will oppose with the utmost vigor and firmness abuses attempting to harm the security and stability of its Southern provinces.”

Nov 6, 2021
“We must salute our Royal Armed Forces which, on November 13, 2020, restored the free movement of people and goods at the Guerguerat crossing point connecting the two brother countries, Morocco and Mauritania. This firm and peaceful action ended provocations and aggressions that Morocco had already reported to the international community as serious threats to security and regional stability.
We also welcome the growing and strengthening concrete support enjoyed by our just cause. In this regard, the sovereign decision of the United States of America to recognize Morocco’s full sovereignty over its Sahara is a source of pride for Us (…). Moreover, the decision of more than twenty-four countries to open consulates in Laâyoune or Dakhla confirms the broad support for the Moroccan position, especially within our country’s Arab-African environment.
This is undoubtedly the best legal and diplomatic response to those who claim that recognition of the Moroccan Sahara lacks clear and concrete visibility on the ground.”

Nov 6, 2022
“Throughout History, the Moroccan Sahara has constantly been a link between Morocco and its African depth on human, cultural, and economic levels. Thus, the development effort we lead in the Sahara allows us to firmly and durably consolidate this historic role and, beyond that, to firmly inscribe it in a future-oriented perspective. This orientation fundamentally aligns with the very nature of privileged relations uniting Morocco to other African countries, which we are keen to develop to best serve the common interests of our brotherly peoples (…).
Given the particular interest we attach to partnerships with the countries of the continent’s west, the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline represents more than a bilateral project between two brother countries for us. Our wish is that it becomes, more broadly, a strategic project beneficial to the entire West Africa region, whose population exceeds 440 million inhabitants.”

Nov 6, 2023
“While Morocco is firmly anchored in Europe via its Mediterranean façade, its Atlantic side opens it to complete access to Africa and a window to the American space. This is why we are determined to undertake a national upgrade of the coastline, including the Atlantic façade of the Moroccan Sahara. We are also committed to seeing that this geopolitical space undergoes an Africa-wide structuring. Our wish is for the Atlantic façade to become a high place of human communion, a hub for economic integration, a center of continental and international influence. To this end, by successfully carrying out the grand projects launched there, we ensure our Southern provinces are equipped with the essential services and infrastructure for their economic development.

Nov 6, 2024
(…) The increased international recognition of the Moroccan Sahara and broad support for the Autonomy proposal. In contrast with this legitimate and natural state of affairs, there unfortunately stands another configuration, disconnected from the real world as it feeds on past myths and stubbornly clings to outdated theses (…). The sacrifices of the Green March generation urge us to greater mobilization and vigilance to strengthen our gains regarding the consolidation of the Moroccan Sahara and to continue the development momentum underway in our Southern provinces. In the same spirit, care must be taken that the fruits of progress and development benefit citizens in all regions of the country, from the Rif to the Sahara, from the Oriental to the Ocean, including mountainous areas, plains, and oases.