Evolution of China's Policy on the Western Sahara

 The ChinaMed Project published on 7 May 2026 an analysis titled "From Neutrality to Strategic Ambiguity: China and the Western Sahara Conflict" by Imane Ezzehouany, Bianca Pasquier, and Amanda Chen.  

This analysis examines the evolution of China's position on the Western Sahara and the growing tension between diplomatic neutrality, geoeconomics, and geopolitical competition in the Maghreb.  The rapid expansion of Sino-Moroccan relations in recent years raise questions whether Beijing may be adopting a calibrated ambiguity compatible with Morocco's autonomy plan, allowing China to safeguard its strategic interests without incurring meaningful political costs.  

Morocco-China Relations Advance

 The ChinaMed Project published on 1 December 2025 an article titled "From Geoeconomics to a Chinese Diplomatic Shift on the Western Sahara? Moroccan Press Coverage of FM Bourita's Visit to Beijing" by Imane Ezzehouany.

In October, China abstained on a UN Security Council vote that endorses Morocco's 2007 Autonomy Project for the Western Sahara.  Morocco interpreted Beijing's vote as a diplomatic victory.  China has consistently refused to recognize either side's claim over the disputed territory.  This nuanced political change follows expanding economic ties between China and Morocco. 

Impact on Maghreb of Sino-Morocco Rapprochement

 The ChinaMed Project published on 10 November 2025 a commentary titled "Mediterranean Anxieties over the Sino-Moroccan Rapprochement: French, Algerian, and Tunisian Media Perspectives" by Bianca Pasquier.  

The Sino-Moroccan entente has underscored China's increasingly delicate balancing act between Algeria and Morocco.  It has also triggered challenges for French policy, caused a growing sense of isolation in Algiers, and may be encouraging Tunisians to emulate Morocco's success with China.  

Morocco Acquires China's Advanced Drones

 Global Defense News published on 5 March 2025 an article titled "Morocco Enhances Military Capabilities with Chinese TB-001 Aerial Drone Acquisition."

Morocco has acquired the TB-001 reconnaissance and attack drone, also known as the Twin-Tailed Scorpion, which features a dual-engine, twin-tail configuration, capable of carrying up to 1,200 kilograms of munitions.  This is a strategic move to bolster Morocco's defense posture as it faces regional security challenges.  Morocco is likely to continue expanding its defense ties with China.  

Russia and the Maghreb

 Eurasia Review published on 11 February 2022 an interview titled "Russia-Maghreb: What Future?" Kester Kenn Klomegah interviewed Chtatou Mohamed, International University of Rabat.

Mohamed concluded that the Maghreb is not a fundamental interest for Russia, but rather a source of economic and political opportunities.  For their part, countries in the Maghreb are willing to take advantage of opportunities offered by Russia while remaining politically unaligned.  There may be an emerging Russia-China alliance in the region.