Western Sahara: Autonomy Plan Is 'Only Practical Way' to Move Forward - British MP

The autonomy plan proposed by Morocco to find a definitive solution to the artificial dispute over the Moroccan Sahara is the "only practical way" for moving forward, British MP Liam Fox said in Rabat on Wednesday.

This position was expressed by Fox in a statement to the press following his talks with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates Nasser Bourita.

"It’s important that we focus on what is best" for the populations of the region "and that we look for a practical way forward in the politics of the region," he said.

"It is our responsibility as politicians and leaders to ensure that the quality of life, that standard of life and the security of our people are placed at the top of the agenda," Fox added.

Proposed by Morocco in 2007, the autonomy plan for the southern provinces now enjoys strong momentum and clear support from a growing number of countries, including Spain, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Cyprus, Luxembourg, Hungary, Romania, Portugal and Serbia.