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Panama has formally reaffirmed its support for Morocco’s autonomy plan for the Sahara, aligning itself with a growing number of nations backing Rabat’s proposal as the only realistic solution to the long-standing territorial dispute.
The announcement, made by Panamanian Foreign Minister Javier Martínez-Acha during Morocco’s Throne Day celebrations, is seen as a significant diplomatic development. It comes as Panama assumes its role as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2025–2026 term.
Martínez-Acha described Morocco’s autonomy proposal, first presented in 2007, as the “only serious and credible alternative” to resolving the conflict. His remarks follow Panama’s 2024 decision to sever ties with the self-proclaimed Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, signaling a clear shift in policy.
Panama’s support echoes a broader diplomatic trend, with several Latin American countries—including Chile, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic—also distancing themselves from the Polisario Front and strengthening ties with Morocco. This regional shift is partly driven by strategic interest in Morocco’s role as a gateway to Africa and its growing geopolitical clout.
According to diplomatic sources, nearly 70% of UN Security Council members now view Morocco’s autonomy initiative as the most viable path forward. Observers note that this undermines any renewed push for a referendum, which many consider outdated and unfeasible.
Rabat is strategically leveraging this momentum to consolidate its international backing within multilateral institutions. The timing of Panama’s declaration—on a symbolic national day—further amplifies its political weight.
The endorsement also aligns with King Mohammed VI’s foreign policy doctrine, which views support for the autonomy plan as a litmus test for Morocco’s strategic partnerships. As the international consensus continues to tilt in Morocco’s favor, 2025 could mark a turning point in the Sahara dossier.
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