Writing at bitterlemons-international.org, Anouar Boukhars argues that Morocco and other Arab nations, “…purposefully perpetuate the political incongruence and economic ‘dissonance’ that is at the root of their failure…”. According to Boukhars, this “incongruence” has manifested itself in the Algerian and Moroccan positions regarding the Western Sahara. “Algeria’s policy has been stuck in perpetual tension between the military and the civilian branches of the government…”, with the civilian branch supporting compromise with Morocco and the military supporting Western Sahara’s claims of independence.  Even Algeria’s president, Abdelaziz Bouteflika, has changed positions on the issue in recent years. Morocco itself has also sent mixed messages regarding the territory, with Boukhars noting, “One historical figure in the region, who strongly supports the ‘Moroccaness” of Western Sahara, bluntly criticized what he termed the government’s ‘mischievous policy.’  Such actions, he said, only heighten mistrust of Morocco’s intentions and, unfortunately, undermine its credible autonomy proposal.” 

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Remarks before meeting with Morocco Foreign Minister Taib Fassi Fihri, 4/09/09: “Well, it’s wonderful to welcome Minister Fihri here today on behalf of Morocco. We are so committed to our relationship and have very high regard for the extraordinary progress that has taken place in Morocco over the last years, and we look forward to deepening and strengthening our relationship.”

U.S. Ambassador to Morocco Thomas Riley, Statement on 2007 Human Rights Report, 3/11/08: “The U.S. Government vigorously promotes the cause of human rights as a core component of our foreign policy.  This is based on a belief that a democratic system that includes free and fair elections; accountable and representative government institutions; and vibrant, independent civil society, political parties, NGOS, and free media, is the best guarantor of human rights.  In Morocco, we see progress and a will to promote democratic change and respect for human rights, but Morocco still faces challenges in traveling the path of reform.”

“Morocco took a courageous step in promoting electoral transparency by allowing domestic and international observation of the 2007 parliamentary elections.  In the United Nations and internationally, Morocco is recognized for its promotion of respect for human rights.”

State Department Statement Congratulating Morocco for Free and Fare Elections, 9/10/07:  “Reports indicate the elections met international standards. We see the elections as another step forward for Morocco and we support the Moroccan people as they build a more democratic, representative government.”

Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs Karen Hughes, Press Conference at Sidi Moumen Sports Complex in Casablanca, Morocco, 6/04/06: Comments on Morocco’s progresss in reforms and the strength of the U.S.-Morocco relationship. “Morocco has been at the forefront of a number of democratic reforms in the region. Whether it be from the reforms that the King is implementing, to reforms in granting greater rights for women, so Morocco I think has a real leadership role to play throughout the Arab and wider Islamic world. Morocco and my country also have a very special partnership. And as I just reminded the young women here, Morocco was the very first country to recognize my country. So I am happy to be here. And to celebrate our long friendship as we continue to learn from each other.”

Senator Richard Lugar (R-IN), Speaking at an Event Marking the Release of Prisoners ofthe Western Sahara Conflict in Tetouan, Morocco, 8/19/05: ”Morocco is a model of reform in the region. The passage last year of the new family code that protects the rights of women was not just a landmark event for Morocco, but a shining example of government-led reform supported by civil society for all countries in the Middle East and North Africa region. The United States looks to Morocco as a reform leader in the region. Reform will secure longterm stability and prosperity in the region and remains a priority for the United States and all of the members of the G-8.”