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Senegal Reaffirms Unwavering Support for Morocco's Sovereignty over Sahara

Tuesday 15 - 13:30

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In a significant diplomatic move, Senegal has reiterated its unequivocal recognition of Morocco's complete sovereignty over the Sahara region. This declaration was made during a session of the United Nations General Assembly's Fourth Committee in New York, underscoring the strong bilateral ties between the two African nations.

The Senegalese representative emphasized the country's steadfast support for Morocco's autonomy initiative, which aims to resolve the long-standing regional dispute. This plan, introduced by Morocco, has been acknowledged by the UN Security Council as a serious and credible proposal since 2007.

Senegal's backing is not merely rhetorical. The nation has demonstrated its commitment through tangible actions, including the establishment of a consulate general in Dakhla in April 2021 and the significant presence of Senegalese nationals in Morocco's southern provinces.

The diplomat highlighted Morocco's substantial achievements in human rights, particularly praising the role of the National Human Rights Council's commissions in Dakhla and Laayoune. These efforts have been recognized by the UN Security Council in its Resolution 2703.

Furthermore, Senegal commended Morocco's investments and development projects in its southern provinces, which are part of a new development model. These initiatives are seen as crucial steps towards empowering local populations and improving the human development index in the region.

The Senegalese representative also lauded Morocco's full compliance with the ceasefire and its consistent cooperation with MINURSO (United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Sahara). He called for enhanced collaboration among all parties with UN entities, particularly UNHCR and WFP, to ensure optimal protection of the rights of populations in the Tindouf camps, including freedom of expression, association, and access to international humanitarian aid.

In addition, Senegal expressed support for the efforts of Staffan de Mistura, the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy for Sahara, in facilitating the revival of the political process under the exclusive auspices of the United Nations.

The diplomat concluded by urging the primary actors in this regional dispute to increase their commitment to finding a realistic and sustainable political solution. This resolution, he stressed, should align with international law and relevant UN Security Council and General Assembly resolutions.

This reaffirmation of support from Senegal adds to the growing international backing for Morocco's position, with over 100 UN member states now supporting the autonomy initiative. It represents a significant diplomatic win for Morocco in its efforts to resolve the Sahara issue and reinforces the strong ties between Morocco and Senegal in regional affairs.