WASHINGTON

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed Washington’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara during a meeting Tuesday with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, the State Department said.

Rubio underscored that the US supports Morocco’s “serious, credible and realistic” autonomy proposal as the only basis for a “just and lasting solution” to the long-running dispute over the territory, according to a readout by spokesperson Tammy Bruce.

“The United States continues to believe that genuine autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty is the only feasible solution,” said the statement.

Rubio also reiterated President Donald Trump’s position urging parties to engage in negotiations “without delay” using Morocco’s proposal as the sole framework for talks.

The meeting also highlighted the "strong US-Morocco partnership" in advancing peace and security, including through regional cooperation under the Abraham Accords, according to the statement

Turning to the war in Gaza, Rubio reiterated the US’s demand for the immediate release of all hostages held by the Palestinian group Hamas and "commended Morocco’s leadership in contributing to a better tomorrow for Israelis, Palestinians and all the region’s people,” it added.