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Rabat – The Republic of Panama has announced its decision to suspend diplomatic relations with the self-proclaimed “Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic” (SADR), a separatist group run by the Polisario Front in the Tindouf camps of Algeria.
In a statement, the Panamanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that this decision, effective immediately, aligns with Panama’s commitment to constructive foreign policy and its support for UN-led efforts to achieve a peaceful and mutually acceptable resolution to the Sahara dispute.
“The Republic of Panama, prioritizing national interests and remaining faithful to the fundamental principles of its foreign policy, reaffirms its conviction in the objectives and values that guide multilateralism and reiterates its commitment to continue supporting the efforts made by the Secretary General and the international community, under the framework of the UN, toward a peaceful, just, sustainable, and acceptable solution for the parties concerned with the Sahara issue,” the statement said.
The country also reaffirmed commitment to dialogue and multilateral cooperation in full accordance with a constructivist foreign policy aimed at strengthening international peace and security.
This decision by Panama carries significant political weight, marking a pivotal shift in Latin American support for the so-called Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (RASD). Notably, Panama was the first country to officially recognize the RASD and was home to the first alleged embassy of the self-styled SADR in Latin America, established in 1980.
The decision comes as several countries joined the chorus, either suspending ties with the separatist group or withdrawing recognition of the Polisario Front, which has long sought to undermine Morocco’s territorial integrity by claiming independence in Western Sahara.
The Polisario is supported by Algeria, which provides logistical, financial, and military support to the separatist group.
Algeria’s backing has contributed to instability in the region, including terrorist attempts targeting Morocco’s southern provinces.
The attacks have come as both the Polisario and Algeria face numerous setbacks in advancing their position in the Sahara. More and more countries are withdrawing their recognition of the separatist group as Morocco has received increasing support for its Autonomy Plan.
The latest withdrawal came from Ecuador in October. The country previously recognized the separatist group in 1983.
Ecuador’s foreign ministry informed Morocco of the decision last month, expressing its support for the UN-led political process seeking to find a mutually acceptable political solution to the Sahara dispute.
Morocco’s diplomacy has gained momentum in the international community. This is reflected by theproactive support by many countries for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan, considering it as a viable political solution to end the dispute.
The initiative continues to gain recognition across the world, with 20 EU countries finding it a serious and credible political solution. It is also supported by 100 countries worldwide.
