Morocco: “The Political Process Cannot Remain Hostage to Algeria’s Intransigence”
In a speech before the UN’s Committee of 24, Morocco strongly criticized Algeria’s position, labeling it as the main obstacle to progress in the political settlement of the Western Sahara issue. These remarks were made during the committee’s regular session held from June 9 to 20.
Majida Moutcho, the Deputy Permanent Representative of Morocco to the United Nations, emphasized that “the political process overseen by the UN cannot remain a hostage to the intransigence of one party,” pointing out that this stance “threatens stability in the entire region.”
The Moroccan official clarified that the international community, including the majority of permanent members of the Security Council, has recognized the nature of this intransigence, expressing her astonishment at some parties continuing to exploit this issue to achieve political agendas far removed from the true principle of self-determination.
Moutcho highlighted the glaring contradiction in Algeria’s position, which “claims to defend the principles of the UN while working for decades to obstruct any realistic solution.” She added, “We observe how this neighboring country exerts significant diplomatic and financial efforts to promote division while deliberately ignoring discussions on other issues raised in this committee.”
The Moroccan diplomat reviewed the rising international momentum in support of the autonomy initiative proposed by Morocco in 2007, asserting that it “represents a realistic and practical solution consistent with international law.” She noted that this initiative has garnered support from 118 countries, including major international players.
Moutcho harshly criticized the continued classification of the Western Sahara issue by the Committee of 24 under decolonization files, arguing that this categorization “does not reflect reality and does not align with the developments in the file within the corridors of the UN.”
She concluded her statement by affirming that the international position has clearly recognized the nature of this fabricated conflict, calling for the adoption of a realistic approach that acknowledges Morocco’s serious efforts to find a political solution that guarantees stability in the region.
