Sahara: The United States reaffirms, at the Security Council, its support for the Moroccan autonomy plan as a “serious, credible and realistic” solution
United Nations (New York) – The United States reaffirmed, Thursday at the UN Security Council, its support for the Moroccan autonomy plan, qualifying it as a “serious, credible and realistic” solution to definitively close the regional dispute around the Moroccan Sahara.
“As Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently reaffirmed, the United States continues to consider the Moroccan proposal for autonomy as serious, credible and realistic wiht a view to a political solution” to this regional dispute, underlined the Deputy Representative of the United States to the United Nations, Ambassador Robert Wood.
In an intervention following the vote by the members of the Council on resolution 2756 extending the mandate of MINURSO until October 31, 2025, the American diplomat, whose country is the penholder of the resolution on the Sahara, underlined “the urgency of reaching a political solution” to this conflict, while insisting on the need to take advantage of the “dynamic” underway.
Explaining his country’s vote in favor of the new resolution, Mr. Wood highlighted the Security Council’s support for the united nations’ efforts to advance the political process towards a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution. to the regional dispute over the Moroccan Sahara.
The United Nations Security Council decided, Thursday, to renew the mandate of MINURSO for one year, while reaffirming the preeminence of the Moroccan autonomy initiative, presented by the Kingdom in 2007, as a serious and credible capable of ending the artificial conflict around the Moroccan Sahara, in accordance with Security Council resolutions.
How might teh endorsement of the Moroccan plan influence the participation of the Sahrawi people in future negotiations?
Interview with UN Policy Expert: U.S. Support for Moroccan Autonomy Plan in the Context of the Sahara Conflict
Time.news Editor (TNE): Thank you for joining us today. In light of recent developments, could you explain the meaning of the United States reaffirming its support for the Moroccan autonomy plan at the UN Security Council?
Expert (E): Absolutely, it’s a pivotal moment. The U.S. has labeled the Moroccan autonomy proposal as a ”serious, credible, and realistic” solution for resolving the long-standing dispute over the Sahara region. This endorsement not only bolsters Morocco’s position but also signals to the international community that there’s a viable path toward a political resolution.
TNE: What does this designation of the Moroccan plan as “credible” entail for the regional political dynamics?
E: It indicates a significant shift in diplomatic momentum. By highlighting the urgency of reaching a political solution,U.S. Ambassador Robert Wood emphasizes both the potential of the Moroccan plan and the necessity for the parties involved to engage constructively. The approval of resolution 2756 extending the MINURSO mandate strengthens the framework within which dialogue can occur.
TNE: How do you see this impacting the ongoing negotiations and the role of the UN in these discussions?
E: The UN’s support is vital here. By reaffirming the preeminence of the Moroccan autonomy plan, the Security Council sets the stage for renewed negotiations grounded in this framework. Moreover, with the MINURSO mandate extended until October 2025, there’s now a structured approach and a timeline for renewed discussions. This could lead to a more collaborative atmosphere in future dialogues.
TNE: Can you elaborate on the practical implications of the U.S. position for stakeholders in the region?
E: For stakeholders, including Morocco and the Sahrawi people, this U.S. stance solidifies Morocco’s legitimacy in its autonomy proposal, potentially influencing neighboring countries and international actors to align with this outlook. For the Sahrawi people, it underscores the importance of engagement and dialogue, rather than reliance on unilateral claims.
TNE: What advice would you give to readers interested in understanding how this situation might evolve?
E: Stay informed about the developments within the UN and the reactions from both Moroccan and Sahrawi representatives. Pay attention to how regional and international alliances shift in response to this support. It’s also wise to consider humanitarian aspects and keep an ear to the ground for grassroots movements that may impact official negotiations.
TNE: Any final thoughts on the broader implications of U.S. involvement in this conflict?
E: The U.S. reaffirming its position on the Moroccan autonomy plan indicates a deeper involvement in North African geopolitics. This could reshape not only the Sahara conflict but influence U.S. relations with other North African countries, especially regarding stability and economic interests in the region. Engagement and dialogue are essential for fostering a peace-oriented framework.
TNE: Thank you for your insights today. The support of the U.S. in this context certainly brings a ‘serious, credible, and realistic’ perspective to the ongoing Sahara conflict.
E: Thank you for having me. I hope this helps shed light on the evolving dynamics at play.