Speaking on this occasion, researcher and writer Bachir Dkhil emphasized that the Polisario Front was created to serve the malicious designs of third parties, and continues to serve those of Algeria against the territorial integrity of Morocco.
Dkhil argued that the creation of the separatist Polisario Front, established during a colonial context, was aimed at undermining Morocco’s interests and territorial integrity. He added that Algeria, among other countries, fueled the conflict to divert attention from its own territories under its control that historically belonged to other neighboring nations.
Furthermore, Dkhil claimed that the establishment of the Tindouf camps was an unsuccessful attempt to attract all Sahrawis. He emphasized that the leaders of the Polisario Front are not democratically elected but rather chosen by Algeria.
The researcher also pointed out that the United Nations concluded that holding a referendum in the Sahara was impractical, as the Polisario Front and its Algerian backers were attempting to suppress the majority of Sahrawis’ right to express their political opinions.
Dkhil highlighted the Moroccan autonomy plan as a practical and pragmatic solution to the conflict, noting that the Sahrawis are actively involved in political activities, decision-making, and the management of the southern provinces, as evidenced by their high participation in elections organized in Morocco.
The president of the International Alternatives Forum also addressed the broader impact of the conflict on the Maghreb region, emphasizing the negative consequences for regional development.
Abdellatif Komat, Dean of the Faculty of Legal, Economic and Social Sciences of Ain Chock, emphasized the role of universities in promoting diplomatic understanding, including through exchanges with experts and academics from all sides. He also highlighted the importance of preparing new generations to understand and defend their countries’ interests.
Komat also analyzed the recent speech of HM King Mohammed VI, suggesting that it called for a new approach to sustainable development in the southern provinces.
The conference was moderated by Azzeddine Khamrich, who emphasized the purpose of the gathering to raise awareness of the latest developments in the Sahara conflict, particularly at the United Nations, as well as the international community’s efforts to uphold Morocco’s territorial integrity.