LISBON, July 22, 2025 – Portugal has added its voice to a growing list of Western nations backing Morocco’s autonomy proposal for Western Sahara, calling the plan a “serious and credible basis” for resolving one of North Africa’s longest-running territorial disputes.
Portugal Aligns With Western Partners on Western Sahara
Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel expressed his government’s support for the Moroccan autonomy initiative, first introduced by King Mohammed VI in 2007. His statement came after talks in Lisbon with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita.
“Portugal considers this initiative a solid foundation for a solution, in line with recent positions taken by countries like France, Spain, and the UK,” Rangel told reporters. However, he emphasized that the plan should move forward under the guidance of the United Nations.
While Portugal did not officially recognize Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara, the endorsement of the plan marks a shift toward deeper diplomatic alignment with Morocco.
What Is Morocco’s Autonomy Plan?
Under the proposal:
- Western Sahara would have its own locally elected legislative, executive, and judicial bodies.
- Morocco would maintain control over defense, foreign relations, and religious affairs.
- The plan aims to provide self-governance without full independence.
This framework has been presented as a middle-ground solution to the decades-long conflict between Morocco and the Polisario Front, a movement backed by Algeria, which continues to call for full independence for the territory.
Western Sahara Conflict: A Longstanding Dispute
The conflict began in 1975 after Spain withdrew from its former colony. In 1976, the Polisario Front declared the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), seeking full independence based on self-determination.
Today, Morocco controls most of the territory, while the SADR operates a government-in-exile, based in Algeria.
Portugal Takes a Diplomatic Stance
Political analysts say Portugal’s current approach is cautious but strategic.
“Portugal’s stance is diplomatic and forward-looking,” said José Tomaz Castello Branco, a political science professor at Catholic University of Lisbon. “They’re not fully recognizing Moroccan sovereignty yet, but they’re leaving the door open for it in the future.”
Portugal’s previous Socialist government had already described Morocco’s proposal as “realistic, serious, and credible” in a 2023 high-level bilateral meeting. Rangel’s statement now confirms that the centre-right administration holds the same position.
Regional Impact and Diplomatic Implications
This development is part of a broader shift in European and Western foreign policy. Countries including France, Spain, and the United States have shown varying degrees of support for the autonomy plan in recent years, citing its potential to bring stability to North Africa.
Portugal’s move strengthens its relationship with Morocco, a key geopolitical neighbor and trade partner.
