US Official Praises Algeria as “Very Good Partner”
Former Algerian Ambassador Amar Belani stated that remarks by US Presidential Advisor for Arab and African Affairs, Massad Boulos, have revealed growing disappointment within Morocco regarding the Western Sahara issue. Mr. Boulos confirmed that no imminent resolution to the conflict is expected, while simultaneously describing Algeria as a "very good partner" to the United States. These statements, made during an interview with France 24, reportedly clarified expectations previously fostered by Moroccan diplomacy.
Mr. Belani further elaborated that Washington currently perceives no immediate final settlement for the dispute and stressed that Algeria cannot impose a solution, requiring any ultimate agreement to have the consent of all concerned parties. He indicated that the United States does not consider the Moroccan position as a foregone conclusion, despite its ongoing support for the Moroccan proposal. The former Ambassador noted that while three rounds of negotiations involving relevant parties were deemed "constructive and fruitful," they have not yielded a definitive accord. This assessment suggests that Morocco's recent diplomatic efforts, including aligning its foreign policy with prior US administration priorities and taking steps such as increased cooperation with Israel, have not secured the desired decisive American commitment on the Western Sahara issue.
The analysis by Mr. Belani highlighted Algeria's strategic importance to the United States, particularly amid the evolving security landscape in the Sahel region. The US withdrawal of forces from Niger has reportedly diminished Washington's previous presence, making Algeria's role in security and regional matters, including cooperation against armed groups, increasingly significant. Beyond security, American interests extend to energy and mining, with major US companies showing interest in Algeria's gas sector and strategic mineral resources. Algeria's geographical position, sharing direct borders with the Sahel, provides it with distinct regional influence, leading Washington to adopt a differentiated approach towards the two countries.
Consequently, the negotiation process itself continues to reflect fundamental disagreements, and US support for Morocco's proposal does not signify the conclusion of the political track. Mr. Belani emphasized that the imposition of an autonomy option as the sole possible outcome lacks acceptance from all conflict parties. Washington's ability to support Morocco, maintain dialogue with the Polisario Front, and cultivate a strategic relationship with Algeria concurrently indicates that American policy is not necessarily one of complete alignment with a single side. This balanced approach confirms that the US recognition of Morocco's position does not equate to a definitive settlement of the Western Sahara conflict.
