Rabat – Senegal reiterated its firm support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative as the basis for resolving the regional dispute over Western Sahara, during the Fourth Committee of the UN General Assembly in New York.
Deputy Permanent Representative of Senegal to the UN, Ambassador Diamane Diome, said his country “reaffirms its constant support for the Moroccan autonomy initiative, described by the United Nations as serious and credible and enjoying broad international backing.”
The Senegalese diplomat underlined that the autonomy plan is reinforced by Morocco’s significant progress in human rights, particularly through the regional commissions of the National Human Rights Council (CNDH) in Dakhla and Laayoune, which have been commended by the UN Security Council.
He further noted that Morocco’s new development model for its southern provinces has translated into major investments aimed at promoting sustainable development, environmental protection, and local culture. These initiatives have contributed to the empowerment of local populations and improved human development indicators in the region, he added.
Diome noted that the Moroccan autonomy plan is also strengthened by an improved business climate and the growing openness of the southern provinces to Africa and the rest of the world.
He cited the inauguration of several consulates in the region, including Senegal’s own consulate in Dakhla in 2021, as evidence of international confidence in Morocco’s stability and leadership in the area.
The Senegalese diplomat also commended Morocco’s respect for the ceasefire and its continuous cooperation with the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO).
Ambassador Diome urged renewed collaboration with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the World Food Programme (WFP) to ensure that the fundamental rights of people living in the Tindouf camps are upheld, including their freedom of expression and association, and access to humanitarian aid.
He also reiterated the call for a census of camp residents in line with international humanitarian law and UN recommendations.
Diome concluded by calling for the resumption of round-table discussions under the exclusive auspices of the UN, encouraging all parties to show greater commitment toward achieving a realistic and lasting political solution.
Senegal, “fully supports Morocco’s territorial integrity and sovereignty over its southern provinces,” he reaffirmed.
