A virtual diplomatic mission in the Moroccan Sahara before opening the consulate

On Thursday, the United States announced the opening of a “virtual” diplomatic mission in the Moroccan Sahara, following the recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over it, pending the opening of a consulate “soon”.

The president of the United States, Donald Trump, announced in early December the recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara region.

Trump’s son-in-law and adviser Jared Kushner arrived in Morocco on Tuesday with an Israeli delegation on the first direct flight from Israel, and signed an announcement that includes a special declaration to open a US consulate in the southern city of Dakhla. of the Moroccan Sahara.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Twitter Thursday: “I am pleased to announce the start of the process of opening a US consulate in the Moroccan Sahara.”

Pompeo added in a statement that “a virtual assistance center will be opened immediately,” and that “a consulate will soon be followed,” without specifying a schedule for its opening.

He continued: “The virtual presence will depend on the United States Embassy in Rabat,” and will pay “special attention to promoting economic and social development.”

The US secretary reiterated that Washington “continues to support political negotiations to resolve the differences between Morocco and the Polisario, within the framework of the autonomy plan presented by Morocco.”