Casablanca – Senegal has renewed its support for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for the Sahara at the United Nations, describing the proposal as a credible option for resolving the regional dispute.
Speaking yesterday before the Fourth Committee of the UN General Assembly, the Senegalese representative reaffirmed Dakar’s backing for the Moroccan initiative and its support for Morocco’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The diplomat said the Autonomy Plan provides a basis for a realistic and lasting solution that could ensure regional prosperity, security and the well-being of the Sahara’s population while preserving Morocco’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and territorial continuity.
Senegal also welcomed what it described as encouraging progress on the Sahara issue following the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2797. The resolution, adopted on October 31, 2025, renewed the mandate of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) and called for renewed dialogue among regional actors under UN auspices.
The Senegalese delegation also called for greater cooperation with UN bodies to protect the fundamental rights of people living in the Tindouf camps in Algeria.
It specifically called for respect for freedom of expression and association, better access to international humanitarian aid intended for camp residents, and a census conducted in accordance with international humanitarian law and the recommendations of the UN Secretary-General.
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The latest statement follows several diplomatic exchanges between Rabat and Dakar that have reinforced their longstanding relationship and Senegal’s position on the Sahara.
In January, Senegal reiterated its support for Morocco’s territorial integrity and Autonomy Plan during the 15th session of the Morocco-Senegal Joint High Commission in Rabat. The two countries also agreed to strengthen cooperation across several sectors.
Morocco and Senegal maintain longstanding ties rooted in historical, religious and cultural connections, alongside political and economic cooperation. Their partnership covers trade, investment, education, health, agriculture, fisheries, energy and infrastructure.
During a visit to Morocco in January, Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko joined Moroccan outgoing Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch for talks on expanding bilateral cooperation. The two sides also signed 17 legal instruments and held an economic forum involving businesses from both countries.
The two governments have pledged to maintain regular political consultations and coordinate on regional and international issues as they seek to deepen their strategic partnership.
