Morocco allows Ikea to open after Sahara diplomatic flap

PARIS (AP) - Moroccan authorities have given furniture giant Ikea the green light to open its first store in the North African kingdom after months of uncertainty.

The store was due to open near Casablanca in September, but received a last-minute notice saying the company lacked the proper certificate of conformity.

The Moroccan government then announced a potential boycott of Swedish products over what it said were Sweden's plans to recognize the independence of Morocco-controlled Western Sahara.

The troubles for Ikea, founded by a Swede though now Dutch-based, were seen as linked to the diplomatic tensions.

Last month, the Swedish government decided it would not recognize the territory's independence.

This week, Ikea received the necessary certificate to open, a company spokesperson said Friday. An opening date will be announced soon.