Support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara continues to grow, with the 2007 autonomy initiative proposed by Morocco gaining increasing backing from nations, organizations, and influential figures in global politics.
Julian HARSTON, a former UN Assistant Secretary-General under Ban Ki-moon and a distinguished expert on Western Sahara who previously led the MINURSO mission, has joined this wave of support. In an interview with AfricaPresse.Paris (APP), HARSTON emphasized the positive outcomes of Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Morocco and strongly reaffirmed Moroccan sovereignty over the southern provinces — a landmark position from a former senior UN official deeply familiar with the complexities of the issue.
APP – Question: President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Morocco from October 28 to 30 thrilled all Moroccans. Does this mark the turning of a new page?
Julian HARSTON: Without a doubt, a new page is turning. President Emmanuel Macron stated very clearly that the only viable future for Western Sahara is the autonomy plan proposed by His Majesty King Mohammed VI. He even announced that France would open a consulate in either Laâyoune or Dakhla. This recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara is truly a historic moment, bringing immense joy to all Moroccans.
APP – Question: France has chosen its side, but could other nations follow its example?
Julian HARSTON: I hope so, even though this decision will cause difficulties with Algeria, which have already begun. Algeria refuses to acknowledge its role in the conflict and stubbornly blocks any peaceful resolution.
This also marks the end of Macron’s “at the same time” policy, where he naively tried to maintain good relations with both Algeria and Morocco. In life, you have to make choices based on your interests and the higher interests of the nation you represent. This international recognition is a major step forward and symbolically very significant.
I also hope that this example will be followed by the United Kingdom within two years, or perhaps even as early as next year. The new British government faces numerous domestic political challenges, making relations with Maghreb countries a lesser priority. Unlike France, these countries have never been part of Britain’s sphere of influence. However, I am deeply convinced that this will happen.
APP – Question: What are the tangible benefits of this Franco-Moroccan reconciliation?
Julian HARSTON: It was an impressive and highly significant visit, particularly on the economic front. President Macron was accompanied by about fifty business leaders and investors keen to explore opportunities in sectors such as oil and automotive. France is now more involved in Morocco’s economic future than ever before.
At the end of this state visit, these economic players were delighted with their reception in Morocco and genuinely optimistic. They see France’s renewed presence in Morocco’s economic development as crucial. The Franco-Moroccan rift had lasted too long.
Trust has been restored, which is essential for improving the business climate—not only between France and Morocco but across Europe as well. I believe that Africa is now more important to Europe than Europe is to Africa.
APP – Question: In his speech on November 6, King Mohammed VI emphasized that “the time has come for the United Nations to take responsibility” for this sensitive issue. Can you elaborate?
Julian HARSTON: On the occasion of the 49th anniversary of the Green March, King Mohammed VI underlined—let me quote—“the attachment of Our sons in the Sahara to their Moroccan identity and the symbols of the Nation, based on the centuries-old ties uniting the Saharan population with Moroccan Kings.” He also highlighted “the dynamic renewal, development, security, and stability enjoyed by Moroccan Sahara,” and expressed satisfaction with “the growing recognition of Moroccan sovereignty and the widespread support for the autonomy proposal.”
This speech made a deep impression. The United Nations, to which I dedicated much of my career, must now “take responsibility” and choose between two paradigms: “the realistic and legitimate approach embodied by Morocco” and “the outdated, disconnected vision” represented—clearly—by Algeria.
I still believe that the United Nations remains the most important venue for attempting to resolve global conflicts.
APP – Question: Why do you find Morocco’s sovereignty over the southern provinces (regions 11 and 12) legitimate and indisputable?
Julian HARSTON: It is ancestral and a historical fact: the people of the Sahara are Moroccan because the Sahara is part of Morocco. In recent years, many countries have recognized Moroccan sovereignty over the southern provinces. Morocco’s diplomatic success, especially in Africa, is extraordinary.
Having led MINURSO for several years—a peacekeeping mission whose mandate has just been extended until October 31, 2025—I know this subject inside out. That’s why I’m speaking out today. We are witnessing a historic moment.
APP – Question: Since joining the African Union in 2017, Morocco has strengthened its already significant influence across the continent.
Julian HARSTON: By deliberately choosing Africa, where His Majesty Mohammed VI has made numerous visits and tours, Morocco has truly reestablished itself as an African country. With its long Atlantic coastline, Morocco has created important ties with its African neighbors. It is no longer just a former French colony or a Mediterranean country.
The Kingdom has expanded its role and influence, becoming one of the leading nations on the continent. Moroccans, particularly in the rapidly developing southern provinces, are already reaping the benefits. In Laâyoune and Dakhla, everything has changed in recent years because the King made these regions a priority, with massive investments for the future.
APP – Question: What significant changes have you observed in Moroccan diplomacy in recent years?
Julian HARSTON: Moroccan diplomacy used to be didactic, but it has transformed into a highly effective and active force, particularly in the economic sphere. The world’s perception of Morocco has changed—not just in Africa but also on the international stage. This success is extraordinary.
This transformation followed a speech by King Mohammed VI in 2018, which set a new course for Moroccan diplomacy.
With the King, we were always on the same page. Today, I am very optimistic about Morocco’s diplomatic and economic prospects. Bolstered by recent events, my Moroccan friends are confident in their future. I have great hope for the Kingdom of Morocco and the development of the Sahara, even though I remain a “critical friend,” always willing to speak candidly with Moroccan authorities—even at the highest levels—over many years.