US President Donald Trump sent a congratulatory message on the 27th anniversary of King Mohammed VI's accession. In the message, released by the Royal Court of Morocco on Saturday, Trump clearly stated the US position on Western Sahara.
In the message, Trump said, "The US position is clear: we recognize Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara and support the serious, credible, and realistic Moroccan autonomy proposal as the only basis for a just and lasting solution."
Any other path would only prolong the status quo, which is unacceptable. This conflict must end now. The US will continue to push for progress toward that goal.
The US President also noted that the vision of the King of Morocco opens doors of prosperity for the people and economies of both countries, and that he has instructed his team to strengthen economic and social development with Morocco, including the Western Sahara region.
Washington formally recognized Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara in December 2020. At that time, the US announced plans to open a consulate in the city of Dakhla in the region, but that step has not yet been implemented.
Morocco proposed expanded autonomy for Western Sahara under its sovereignty in 2007. The Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, demands a referendum on self-determination for the region.