Canada has officially recognized Morocco's autonomy plan for Western Sahara as a 'serious and credible' basis for a mutually acceptable solution, according to a statement from Global Affairs Canada on June 7, 2026. The shift aligns Canada with a growing number of Western nations supporting Morocco's proposal.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) emphasized the importance of security cooperation with Morocco, citing shared challenges such as terrorism and organized crime. The RCMP's statement followed Canada's new position, which was announced by the Canadian government.
Morocco's autonomy plan, first proposed in 2007, would grant Western Sahara self-governance under Moroccan sovereignty. The United Nations has called the plan a 'serious and credible' effort, though the Polisario Front and Algeria continue to push for a referendum on independence.
Canada's decision is expected to strengthen bilateral ties, particularly in trade and security. The move has been welcomed by Morocco but criticized by supporters of Western Saharan independence.
