The President of the Colombian Congress, Senator Efraín Cepeda, has reiterated the legislative body’s unwavering support for Morocco regarding the Sahara issue, highlighting the importance of strengthening bilateral trade ties.
In a press release issued following a meeting between Senator Cepeda and the Moroccan Ambassador to Colombia, Farida Loudaya, the President of the Colombian Congress expressed its opposition to the stance adopted by President Gustavo Petro towards the Polisario, described, a “separatist group by various Moroccan sectors”.
Cepeda recalled that the Colombian government’s recognition of the Polisario was “overwhelmingly rejected” by more than 70% of the Senate in a motion passed in November 2023.
He also underscored the significance of maintaining and deepening relations with Morocco, a key economic partner for Colombia.
According to official data cited in the Congress press release, trade between the two nations reached $350 million in 2022. Colombian exports to Morocco include coal, coffee, and chemicals, while Morocco supplies fertilizers and agricultural products to Colombia.
“In this context,” the press release continued, “President Cepeda questioned the impact of the government’s stance, particularly in light of its declared intent to strengthen ties with Africa”, urging the government to reconsider its position, warning that such a diplomatic misstep could jeopardize future relations with the continent.
“The president claims to want to enhance relations with Africa, yet his stance towards Morocco risks undermining these efforts,” Cepeda remarked. “Morocco is a crucial partner, and we must continue reinforcing the strong trade relations that benefit both nations. I sincerely hope this government reconsiders its decision.”
A staunch advocate for Morocco’s territorial integrity in the Colombian Congress, Cepeda was among the key supporters of the pro-Moroccan motions adopted in October 2022 and November 2023, which garnered the backing of 63 and 65 senators, respectively.
The meeting was also attended by Senators Germán Alcides Blanco Álvarez, President of the Colombia-Morocco Friendship Group, and Paola Andrea Holguín Moreno, a member of the Foreign Relations Committee and the Friendship Group, both of whom have been strong proponents of Colombia’s support for Morocco.
MAP: 14 February 2025
