Bolivian Deputy Endorses Morocco’s Autonomy Initiative as Only Solution for Sahara Dispute

Bolivian Deputy Samantha Nogales has publicly endorsed Morocco’s Autonomy Initiative for the Sahara, describing it as the only viable solution to the ongoing regional dispute over the southern provinces of the Kingdom. In a statement following her recent five-day visit to Morocco, Nogales emphasized her “firm” belief that “the autonomy plan presented by Morocco in 2007 is the way out to end the regional conflict over the Moroccan Sahara.” The visit, which took place from June 23-28, saw Nogales leading a Bolivian parliamentary delegation, including Pamela Soraya Alurralde Barea, Rosa Tatiana Añez, and Mayra Ingrid Zalles. Nogales highlighted her firsthand experience in the Sahara region, where she and her delegation met with local officials and were briefed on various development projects driving significant regional growth. These projects, she noted, showcased Morocco’s commitment to improving the area’s infrastructure and human development. During meetings with Rachid Talbi El-Alami, Speaker for the House of Representatives, and Enaam Mayara, for the House of Councillors (Morocco’s lower and upper houses respectively), Nogales discussed Morocco’s efforts to resolve the Sahara issue through the proposed autonomy plan. Nogales outlined the primary objective of the Bolivian delegation’s visit, which is to establish stronger ties between the legislative institutions of Bolivia and Morocco. “This visit marks a new stage of fruitful cooperation based on non-interference in internal affairs and respect for national sovereignty,” she told MAP in an interview. The delegation expressed surprise and admiration for the investments in infrastructure and human development in the Sahara. Nogales, who chairs the Economic International Relations Committee in the Bolivian Chamber of Representatives, noted the remarkable progress and economic diversification in Morocco, calling it a “model for Bolivia.” Further discussions with Moroccan diplomatic officials underscored the importance of enhancing bilateral relations. The delegation also met with the National Human Rights Council to learn about Morocco’s advancements in human and fundamental rights. Nogales voiced hope that the upcoming legislative elections in Bolivia would open new avenues for strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in trade. She called for increased cooperation in vital sectors, the facilitation of exchanges, investments, and business opportunities for the private sector.