The United Kingdom on Thursday, April 23, 2026, reiterated its firm support for Morocco’s autonomy plan, describing it as the most credible, viable, and pragmatic basis for resolving the long-standing Western Sahara dispute.
UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper reaffirmed Britain’s position following a meeting with Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, held in London.
The two senior diplomats used the occasion to review bilateral relations and align on key regional issues, with the renewal of British backing for Morocco’s autonomy proposal featuring prominently on the agenda.
Both officials reaffirmed the importance of engaging urgently and positively in advancing the political process conducted under the auspices of the United Nations, with emphasis on all parties involved.
During the Meeting, the UK Minister noted that the Country will continue its actions at various bilateral, regional, and international levels in order to support the resolution of the Sahara dispute.
Cooper also welcomed the excellent bilateral relations, highlighting the strategic partnership with the Kingdom of Morocco through cooperation opportunities linked to the 2030 World Cup.
Morocco, UK Bilateral relations
Thursday’s meeting builds on the Morocco-UK Strategic Dialogue held in Rabat on June 1, 2025. A historic event that marked a significant turning point in relations between the two countries.
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British Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State, Mr David Lammy also praised the progress made in the enhanced strategic partnership between the UK and the Kingdom of Morocco.
He reflected on the year since the June 2025 dialogue, noting that both nations continue to collaborate in the pursuit of shared growth and security, with the dialogue having charted a new course for bilateral cooperation across a broad range of sectors.
Lammy further underscored the depth of the relationship, noting that the two countries share diplomatic ties stretching back more than 800 years, highlighting it as one of the oldest bilateral relationships in the world.
Morocco has since established itself as a leading strategic partner of the United Kingdom, playing a central role in sectors critical to sovereignty and resilience of both countries. Areas of cooperation include security and defense, maritime affairs, energy transition, food security, water resource management, and health.
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This momentum forms part of an enhanced strategic partnership that continues to deepen, with both countries committed to broadening their collaboration and reinforcing regional stability into the future.
