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During a recent United Nations regional meeting in Managua, the capitals of Liberia, Burundi, and Sierra Leone reaffirmed their support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative regarding Western Sahara. They hailed the proposal as the most viable and realistic solution for resolving this longstanding regional dispute.
Morocco’s Autonomy Initiative Gains Ground
In a significant development for Morocco’s ongoing diplomatic efforts, representatives from Liberia, Burundi, and Sierra Leone voiced strong backing for the country’s proposal for autonomy in Western Sahara during the UN’s Committee of 24 conference. This renewed support underscores a growing consensus among member states regarding a political solution to the decades-old conflict.
Liberia’s delegation emphasized that Morocco’s autonomy plan, first submitted in 2007, is not only practical but also possesses credibility as a framework for achieving a lasting political resolution. They highlighted increasing recognition among UN member states, framing the initiative as a serious approach to ending the standoff and touting UN Resolution 2797 as a catalyst for political momentum.
Broadening Support for a Political Solution
Burundi echoed these sentiments, characterizing the autonomy scheme as the sole serious and realistic pathway toward a definitive resolution. They stated that more than 130 nations globally have now expressed support for Morocco’s proposal, further solidifying its status as a central reference point in the political dialogue surrounding the issue.
Sierra Leone noted the consistent alignment of Morocco’s initiative with international law principles, asserting it provides a reliable framework for achieving a sustainable political solution. They emphasized that the recent UN decision marks a crucial milestone in the quest for a final settlement.
Economic Development as a Catalyst for Peace
The three delegations also commended Morocco for its ongoing development initiatives in the southern regions, which include substantial investments in infrastructure, economy, and environmental sustainability. They highlighted the role of elected institutions in enhancing local community participation in governance.
Burundi pointed out the inclusion of Sahrawi elected officials in the Committee of 24 as a vital indicator of the population’s engagement in the political life of the kingdom, underscoring the importance of democratic processes.
Sierra Leone wrapped up its remarks by reiterating the significance of respecting the ceasefire agreement, praising the cooperative relationship between Morocco and the MINURSO mission, and recognizing the growing international support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative as the most practicable and actionable solution moving forward.
