Algeria's Stance on Western Sahara Negotiations
Algeria has firmly defended the ongoing negotiation process between Morocco and the Polisario Front aimed at resolving the Western Sahara issue, emphasizing that any agreement must guarantee the self-determination of the Sahrawi people. In a speech delivered on Africa Day, Algeria's Deputy Foreign Minister, Ahmed Attaf, highlighted the importance of this mediation, which involves both the United States and the United Nations. He stated that the process validates Algeria's long-standing demands and efforts over the past five decades for the organization of direct negotiations between the Kingdom of Morocco and the Polisario Front.
Attaf expressed Algeria's intention to ensure that these negotiations lead to a "fair, lasting, and definitive" solution that upholds the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination, in accordance with United Nations resolutions. He reiterated Algeria's commitment to the principle of self-determination for peoples, respect for state sovereignty and territorial integrity, non-interference in internal affairs, and prioritizing political and diplomatic solutions.
Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts and Historical Context
The United States continues to actively engage in diplomatic efforts to achieve a resolution to the conflict in the former Spanish colony of Western Sahara. This was evident during the recent visit of U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau to Algeria and Morocco, where he discussed various matters related to economics, trade, and security cooperation. However, these discussions are framed within Washington's recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over the Sahrawi territory and its support for Morocco's autonomy plan, which has been outright rejected by the Polisario Front.
Landau's visit to Algeria on April 27 marked the beginning of a regional tour that subsequently took him to Morocco before returning on May 1, following several days of meetings with high-ranking officials from both countries. These discussions are part of ongoing rounds of talks aimed at addressing the Western Sahara dispute in Madrid and Washington, although specific details have yet to emerge.
The Western Sahara, once a Spanish colony, was occupied by Morocco in 1975 despite resistance from the Polisario Front. A prolonged conflict ensued until 1991 when both parties signed a ceasefire with the aim of holding a self-determination referendum. However, disagreements regarding the voter registration process and the inclusion of Moroccan settlers have thus far stalled the implementation of this referendum.
As reported by infobae.com.
