Lead
At a regional conference in Managua, Nicaragua, Morocco’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Omar Hilal, declared that the ongoing inclusion of the Western Sahara issue on the agenda of the UN’s Committee of 24 has become obsolete. Hilal emphasized that recent diplomatic developments underscore Morocco’s autonomous governance proposal as the only credible basis for resolving the long-standing territorial dispute.
Context: A Shifting Diplomatic Landscape
The Western Sahara conflict, a protracted territorial dispute between Morocco and the separatist movement known as the Polisario Front, has long been a contentious issue in international politics. The UN’s Committee of 24, tasked with addressing decolonization matters, has historically included the Western Sahara issue on its agenda. However, Hilal argues that the current geopolitical dynamics, particularly following the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2797, merit a reevaluation of this ongoing discourse.
A Demand for Change
During discussions at the conference held from May 25 to 27, Hilal articulated that the persistence of this topic on the Committee’s agenda not only contravenes Article 12 of the UN Charter—prioritizing the Security Council in matters of international peace and security—but also hampers the potential for resolution. He called for an end to “ideological rhetoric and traditional approaches” that have perpetuated the conflict for decades and urged the other involved parties, particularly Algeria and the Polisario, to engage constructively in the UN-facilitated political process.
Morocco’s Renewed Commitment
In light of recent developments, Hilal noted Morocco’s proactive stance post-Resolution 2797. The Moroccan government has presented a comprehensive plan for autonomy during discussions in Washington and Madrid, showcasing its commitment to a serious dialogue aimed at resolution. Hilal further stressed that the matter of Western Sahara falls under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Security Council, distancing it from what he termed the “ideological narrative of decolonization” utilized by specific UN bodies.
Growing International Support
Highlighting the increasing international backing for Morocco’s autonomy initiative, Hilal mentioned that over 130 UN member states now support the proposal. This growing consensus reflects a shift in perceptions regarding Morocco’s approach and the potential for a sustainable resolution to the conflict.
Development Initiatives in Southern Regions
The ambassador also shed light on the significant developmental transformations taking place in Morocco’s southern regions, under the new growth model spearheaded by King Mohammed VI. He pointed to various initiatives in infrastructure, renewable energy, and blue economy, alongside advancements in education and health sectors, all aimed at fostering a future-oriented developmental framework rooted in dignity.
A Call for Political Will
Concluding his remarks, Hilal reiterated Morocco’s unwavering commitment to the “extended hand” policy, a diplomatic approach championed by King Mohammed VI. He referred to the King’s speech following the adoption of Resolution 2797, which emphasized the necessity for a “win-win” solution that preserves the dignity of all parties and alleviates regional tensions. Hilal affirmed that Morocco remains dedicated to addressing the Western Sahara issue with seriousness and accountability, believing that a fair and lasting political solution is possible with the required political will from all involved parties.
SEO Keywords:
Western Sahara, Morocco, UN Security Council, autonomy proposal, Omar Hilal, diplomacy, Algeria, Polisario Front
Meta Description:
Morocco’s ambassador to the UN argues for the obsolescence of the Western Sahara issue on the UN’s agenda, promoting an autonomy proposal as a viable solution.
Social Media Hook:
Morocco’s UN ambassador asserts that ongoing discussions about Western Sahara have become outdated, pushing for a new approach centered on autonomy and substantive dialogue.
