Comoros Reaffirms Unwavering Support for Morocco's Autonomy Plan
At the C24 Seminar for the Caribbean held in Caracas, Venezuela, from May 14 to 16, the Union of Comoros unequivocally reaffirmed its support for Morocco's autonomy plan as a definitive solution to the regional dispute over the Sahara region.
In a resolute stance, Issimail Chanfi, the Permanent Representative of Comoros to the United Nations, emphasized, "The Union of Comoros fully subscribes to the Moroccan Initiative for Autonomy." He highlighted that this initiative, deemed serious and credible by the UN Security Council and in line with UN resolutions, represents a compromise solution.
While commending the sustained efforts and commitment of Staffan de Mistura, the Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for the Moroccan Sahara, in reviving the political process under the exclusive auspices of the UN Secretary-General, the Comorian diplomat stated that his country calls for the resumption of the round-table discussions, in accordance with Security Council Resolution 2703.
He underscored that the engagement of all parties is crucial for achieving a political, realistic, pragmatic, and enduring resolution to this regional dispute.
Furthermore, Chanfi expressed satisfaction with his country's decision to open a Consulate General in Laayoune, welcoming the growing number of consulates established by Arab, African, American, and Asian countries, as well as the significant presence of international organizations in the southern provinces of the Kingdom.
"In this area that is simultaneously Mediterranean, Atlantic, and African, the growing interest in the region will undoubtedly contribute to enhancing and strengthening economic and social opportunities," he stated, noting that the Moroccan Sahara constitutes a veritable "hub" for development and influence in the region.
The Comorian ambassador commended Morocco's "highly commendable" achievements in the field of human rights, as acknowledged and praised by the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council.
These resolutions, he recalled, highlight the strengthening of the role of the regional commissions of the National Human Rights Council in Laayoune and Dakhla, as well as Morocco's bilateral cooperation with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, treaty bodies, and procedures of the Human Rights Council.
Additionally, Chanfi stated that his country highly commends Morocco's respect for the ceasefire and calls on other parties to do the same.
Addressing the concerning situation in the Tindouf camps in southwestern Algeria, Chanfi denounced the "recurring" and "unacceptable" violations of the rights of the sequestered populations, particularly women and children.
"We insist on the importance of a comprehensive census and registration of these populations, in accordance with international standards," he emphasized.