The meeting, organized by the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in Finland to celebrate the Independence and Green March holidays, brought together personalities from various political, academic, diplomatic, and media backgrounds. They emphasized the relevance of the Moroccan autonomy plan and discussed various aspects of the Moroccan Sahara issue.
The Moroccan Ambassador to Helsinki, Mohamed Achgalou, reviewed the origins of the autonomy plan, emphasizing its credibility, seriousness, and realism since its officialization in 2007. He highlighted the diplomatic successes achieved due to the King’s vision, which enjoys growing support among European countries.
Achgalou stressed the peaceful and reconciliatory values embedded in Morocco’s development model, offering a unique opportunity for other parties to embrace.
He also addressed the dire situation in the Tindouf camps, urging a clear distinction between the prosperous southern provinces and the Tindouf camps in the Algerian desert, which he described as a lawless anomaly.
Finnish writer and political advisor Risto Huvila called for a new perspective on the conflict, urging Europe to support the autonomy plan and stand by Morocco as a reliable partner.
Professor Faith Mkweisha highlighted the rejection of the autonomy plan by Algeria and the Polisario Front, suggesting malicious intentions that perpetuate suffering in the Tindouf camps.
Anterro Eerola, a Finnish political expert and journalist, emphasized the compliance of the autonomy plan with international law and UN principles, arguing that it offers a path to a better future for the region.
The meeting also included a tribute by the Moroccan embassy to the Finnish diaspora, recognizing their efforts in strengthening cultural and social ties between the two nations.