Morocco Roundup: Autonomy plan for Western Sahara, remittances decline, Morocco among top global travel destinations
UK formally supports Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara
On Sunday, June 1, the United Kingdom officially endorsed Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara, describing it as the most credible, viable, and pragmatic solution to the long-standing dispute. At a joint press conference in Rabat, British Foreign Minister David Lammy announced the policy shift, stating that the UK now supports Morocco’s proposal to grant the territory limited autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty. He was joined by Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita. Both ministers highlighted strong bilateral cooperation on security and trade and acknowledged Morocco’s role as co-host of the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Lammy emphasised that resolving the Western Sahara issue is overdue and essential for regional stability in North Africa.
U.S. approves potential $260 million Javelin missile sale to Morocco
Morocco’s request to purchase 612 Javelin anti-tank missiles was published in the U.S. Federal Register on May 27. The proposed $260 million (2.61 billion dirhams) sale received State Department approval, as confirmed by the Defence Security Cooperation Agency on March 19. According to the agency, the sale supports U.S. foreign policy and national security by enhancing the defence capabilities of a major non-NATO ally in North Africa. This is the first major U.S. arms deal with Morocco announced since President Donald Trump returned to office on January 20. It was followed by a separate proposal on April 15 to sell 600 FIM-92K Stinger Block I missiles and related equipment for an estimated $825 million (7.7 billion dirhams), also pending Congressional approval.
Morocco’s remittances decline by 3.7% as of April 2025
Remittances from the Moroccan diaspora dropped by 3.7% year-on-year as of April 2025, according to the latest data from the Exchange Office. Transfers totalled MAD 35.9 billion ($3.88 billion), down from MAD 37.27 billion ($4 billion) during the same period in 2024—a decline of MAD 1.37 billion ($148.25 million). Remittances remain a key contributor to Morocco’s economic growth. In 2024, total remittances exceeded $11.7 billion, reflecting a 2.1% increase from 2023.
Morocco’s King Mohammed VI outlines four-pillar strategy for Africa’s sustainable development
King Mohammed VI of Morocco has presented a strategic framework for Africa’s comprehensive and sustainable development, focusing on four main pillars: reforming development financing models; fostering supportive institutional, economic, and social environments; boosting intra-African trade; and maximising the value of the continent’s natural resources. The roadmap was conveyed in a message to participants at the 2025 “Ibrahim Governance Weekend” in Marrakech, delivered by Royal Advisor André Azoulay. The King emphasised that development financing remains a critical challenge, calling for innovative and solidarity-based solutions that reflect Africa’s specific needs and require coordinated action at national, regional, and global levels.
Morocco ranks among top global travel destinations in early 2025
Morocco was identified alongside Spain and Japan as one of the best-performing travel destinations in the first quarter of 2025, according to the latest UN World Tourism Barometer. International tourist arrivals to Morocco increased by over 22% compared to Q1 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 16%. Globally, more than 300 million international tourists travelled between January and March 2025—an increase of 14 million from the same period in 2024. This represents a 5% rise in global arrivals year-over-year and a 3% increase over pre-pandemic figures. Morocco contributed significantly to Africa’s 9% growth in tourist arrivals. The country’s performance has been attributed to strategic investments in infrastructure, improved security, and the promotion of desert tourism.
