Strengthening International Backing for Morocco's Autonomy Initiative
In a significant development within the United Nations framework, the support for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan concerning the Sahara region is gaining momentum, particularly following recent affirmations from Burundi and Sierra Leone during a meeting of the UN Committee of 24 (C24) held in Managua, Nicaragua. Burundi's representatives took the floor to assert that the Autonomy Plan represents the sole viable pathway toward achieving a lasting political resolution to the longstanding dispute. They highlighted the pivotal UN Security Council Resolution 2797, characterizing it as a critical turning point that positions Morocco’s proposal as the central reference for future negotiations.
Burundi also noted the growing international consensus surrounding this initiative, indicating that over 130 countries have now expressed their support. The delegation urged all involved parties, including Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania, and the Polisario Front, to actively re-engage in the UN-led process in a constructive manner, guided by the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy.
Addressing Regional Stability and Human Rights Concerns
Additionally, the discussion encompassed the security landscape in the region, with Burundi referencing a recent attack in Smara that poses a threat to the fragile stability that has been established. They reiterated the necessity for all parties to respect the ceasefire agreement, while also acknowledging Morocco’s ongoing collaboration with the UN mission in the area. The delegation pointed out the positive developments in Morocco’s southern provinces, citing advancements in infrastructure, social services, and environmental projects that have tangibly improved daily life for residents. Furthermore, they emphasized the importance of local political engagement, noting that elected representatives from these regions are active participants in UN dialogues.
On the human rights front, Burundi recognized Morocco’s efforts to engage with UN mechanisms and its robust institutional framework at the regional level. However, concerns were raised about conditions in the Tindouf camps, with calls for enhanced transparency in the management of humanitarian aid and clearer oversight regarding the population data within these camps.
Echoing these sentiments, Sierra Leone’s representative to the UN, Kalilu Totangi, reaffirmed the compatibility of the Moroccan Autonomy Plan with international law and the objectives set forth by the Security Council. He underscored that Resolution 2797 serves as a substantial foundation for advancing the political dialogue. Totangi also pointed to the ongoing developments in the southern provinces, highlighting investments aimed at infrastructure, sustainable growth initiatives, and cultural preservation efforts that collectively enhance local living conditions and fortify long-term prospects for the region.
Sierra Leone further emphasized the significance of the UN Secretary-General's ongoing role and the importance of a political solution that is both realistic and sustainable. Their statement also reiterated the need to maintain the ceasefire and ensure continued coordination with the UN mission. These affirmations from both nations illustrate a broader diplomatic movement, indicating that an increasing number of countries are aligning with Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as the framework for resolving the protracted dispute over the Sahara.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
