Omar Hilale: Autonomy Plan Is ‘Only Solution’ to Sahara Dispute

Rabat – Ambassador Omar Hilale, Morocco’s Permanent Representative of Morocco to the United Nations, delivered a resounding message on Morocco’s Western Sahara stance during the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday.

He asserted that the Moroccan autonomy initiative, which provides for operating within the framework of Morocco’s territorial integrity and national sovereignty, remains the singular and optimal solution to the longstanding dispute over Western Sahara.

Addressing the global assembly, Ambassador Hilale emphasized the overwhelming international support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative, with backing from more than a hundred countries. Nearly 30 countries and regional organizations have established consulates general in the cities of Laayoune and Dakhla, reinforcing their unwavering support for the Saharan region’s integral connection to Morocco.

Hilale underscored Morocco’s unwavering commitment to achieving a final political solution to the territorial dispute over the Moroccan Sahara. This resolution, he emphasized, would pave the way for development and stability in the region, not only benefiting the local population but also contributing positively to the broader African continent.

In alignment with this commitment, Morocco continues to endorse the efforts of the United Nations Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy for the Sahara, Staffan de Mistura, aimed at reviving the round table process.

Ambassador Hilale noted that this process must maintain its existing format, involving all concerned parties, particularly Algeria, in line with the recommendations of Security Council Resolution 2654. He reaffirmed that the ultimate solution to this regional dispute should be political, realistic, practical, and built on a foundation of consensus.

The Moroccan diplomat also spoke of the socio-economic vibrancy of the southern provinces, highlighting the impressive developments achieved under the new model for regional development.

Supported by a budget allocation exceeding $10 billion and with 81% of the projects already completed, these projects have positioned the region as a key hub for trade between Africa and the rest of the world.

Addressing another critical issue, Ambassador Hilale expressed Morocco’s deep concern about the dire humanitarian situation in the Tindouf camps in Algeria. He noted that Algeria had illegally delegated its authority to an armed separatist group with established links to terrorist and criminal networks.

Hilale called upon the international community to take note of Algeria’s refusal to allow the registration and census of the detained population in these camps, a clear violation of international law and repeated appeals by the Security Council since 2011.

He also condemned the misappropriation of humanitarian aid intended for the Tindouf camp detainees, as corroborated by reports from international, regional, and non-governmental organizations, including the World Food Program’s January 2023 report.