An American Delegation Visits Laayoune to Enhance Stability and Diplomatic Support
A U.S. delegation, consisting of diplomatic and military representatives from the U.S. Embassy in Rabat, undertook a two-day working visit to the headquarters of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) in Laayoune.
The visit included a meeting with Alexander Ivanko, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative and Head of MINURSO, as well as bilateral discussions with General Fakhr Al-Asan, the mission’s force commander. The discussions addressed the review of peacekeeping services in the region, particularly concerning challenges related to monitoring the ceasefire.
The purpose of the visit was to assess ceasefire violations since November 2020 and to examine the operational hurdles caused by movements from the Polisario Front, especially in the eastern part of the defensive wall. Additionally, it aimed to support UN initiatives to promote regional stability and strengthen the mission’s capacity to carry out its duties effectively.
This visit occurs within the context of ongoing U.S. support for Morocco’s position on Western Sahara, following the recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Southern provinces. It also reflects a trend towards enhancing Washington’s presence in line with Morocco’s diplomatic strategy in the areas of security, economy, and strategic affairs.
