The Gambia made its declaration from Dakhla, southern Morocco, reiterating support and endorsement of the Autonomy Plan as the “only credible and realistic” solution to the dispute over Western Sahara.

The Gambia renewed its diplomatic position in a joint statement following the third session of the Joint Morocco Gambia Cooperation Committee chaired by Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita and his counterpart Mamadou Tangara.

Tangara also expressed first support for a sustainable solution preserving Morocco’s territorial integrity, conveying his country’s support for the UN-led political process to find a mutually acceptable and political solution to end the dispute.

Bourita and Tangara also emphasized the “strong and long-standing relations of brotherhood and solidarity between the two countries,” with the Gambian official emphasizing his country’s full readiness to “harness the enormous potential available to further consolidate” the country’s partnership in all areas.

The new cooperation session reflects the two country’s determination to explore new ways to boost cooperation in various areas, including trade.

The Gambia is part of the countries that frequently renews support for Morocco’s Autonomy initiative, which has been gaining growing support in the international community.

About 30 countries, including African and Arab countries have now established consulates general in the cities of Laayoune and Dakhla, reflecting their support for Morocco’s territorial integrity.

In addition, Bulgaria has become the 15th European Union member state to support Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as a serious and credible basis to resolve the decades-old dispute.

The European country joined the chorus of countries who have endorsed Morocco’s initiative earlier this month.