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Rabat – Senegal has once again reaffirmed its recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara and its unwavering backing of the country’s autonomy initiative as a definitive solution to the ongoing Western Sahara dispute.
Addressing the 4th Committee of the United Nations General Assembly on Monday, the Senegalese representative underlined the nation’s firm stance, emphasizing that Senegal’s support is demonstrated by the establishment of a Consulate General in Dakhla in 2021, as well as the significant presence of Senegalese nationals in Morocco’s southern provinces.
“Senegal unambiguously reaffirms its recognition of the Kingdom of Morocco’s full sovereignty over Western Sahara,” the diplomat stated. He reiterated Senegal’s “consistent” support for the Moroccan Autonomy Plan, which has been deemed “serious and credible” by the UN Security Council since 2007.
Morocco’s autonomy initiative has garnered significant international support, with over 100 UN member states endorsing the proposal.
The diplomat spoke about Morocco’s progress in human rights, including the active role of the National Human Rights Council in Dakhla and Laayoune, recognized by the UN Security Council’s Resolution 2703.
The Senegalese envoy also noted that Morocco’s Autonomy Plan is bolstered by the country’s substantial investments in the region, underpinned by a new development model for the southern provinces.
Senegal’s representative further expressed his country’s full backing of any initiatives that promote the well-being of the inhabitants of Western Sahara and safeguard Morocco’s territorial integrity.
He also praised Morocco for respecting the ceasefire and cooperating with the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO).
The diplomat urged all parties involved to collaborate closely with UN entities, including the UNHCR and the World Food Programme, to address the humanitarian needs of those living in the Tindouf camps.
The Senegalese envoy also commended UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Western Sahara, Staffan de Mistura, for his efforts to restart the political process under UN auspices.
He concluded by calling for stronger commitment from all stakeholders to reach a “lasting and realistic” solution in line with international law and UN resolutions.
