UN: Benin welcomes Moroccan autonomy initiative to end regional dispute over the Sahara
United Nations (New York) - Benin welcomed in New York the autonomy initiative presented by Morocco to definitively close the regional dispute around the Sahara.
Speaking Tuesday before the 4th Committee of the UN General Assembly, the permanent representative of Benin to the United Nations, Ambassador Marc Hermanne Araba indicated that the autonomy plan is qualified as credible and serious in the successive Security Council resolutions since 2007.
In this regard, he welcomed the opening of Consulates General in the cities of Laayoune and Dakhla not only by African countries, but also by the Arab States of America and Asia.
The diplomat noted that his country wants a consensual and lasting settlement of this regional dispute, noting that the achievement of this consensus, through quadripartite Morocco-Algeria-Mauritania-“Polisario” negotiations, will be a great contribution to stability. sustainable development of the Maghreb region.
He also welcomed the efforts of the Personal Envoy of the United Nations Secretary General for the Moroccan Sahara, Staffan de Mistura, one of whose main missions is to work for the achievement of a consensus on the basis of the achievements of the round tables held with the participation of the main stakeholders.
What are the key factors influencing Benin’s support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative in the Sahara region?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Sahara Dispute Expert
Time.news Editor: Good morning and welcome to our special interview segment. Today, we have with us Dr. Aminata Sow, an expert in international relations and regional disputes. Dr. Sow, thank you for joining us today.
Dr. Aminata Sow: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Recently, we’ve seen Benin expressing support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative regarding the Sahara region. Can you explain what this initiative entails and why it’s crucial for resolving the long-standing dispute?
Dr. Sow: Certainly! The autonomy initiative proposed by Morocco aims to grant a significant measure of self-governance to the Sahrawi people while maintaining Moroccan sovereignty over the region. This approach is seen as a way to bring lasting peace to a conflict that has persisted for decades. By welcoming this initiative, Benin is acknowledging Morocco’s efforts and advocating for a diplomatic resolution that respects the territorial integrity of all parties involved.
Editor: It’s interesting to see a West African nation like Benin take a stand on this issue. What might have influenced their decision to support Morocco’s initiative?
Dr. Sow: Benin’s support can be seen in the context of regional solidarity and the need for stability in the Sahel region. Countries in West Africa are keen on minimizing conflicts that could lead to instability, and supporting an initiative that promotes dialog rather than conflict is beneficial for all. Additionally, Benin may view Morocco as a partner in development and economic cooperation, which could further incentivize their support.
Editor: That makes sense. How does the international community, particularly the United Nations, view Morocco’s proposal? What role do they play in this dispute?
Dr. Sow: The United Nations has been involved in mediating the dispute for many years. While the UN has acknowledged Morocco’s autonomy plan as a serious initiative, it also calls for dialog between the involved parties, including the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR). The acceptance of Morocco’s proposal by countries like Benin might influence other nations to reconsider their stances and push for a resolution that leans toward autonomy.
Editor: In your opinion, what are the potential implications of Benin’s support for Morocco’s initiative on the broader geopolitical landscape in Africa?
Dr. Sow: Benin’s endorsement could encourage other African nations to rally in favor of Morocco’s plan, which might shift the pattern of diplomatic alliances in the region. It could also lead to more assertive actions from Morocco, and thus, a unified regional approach to solving the Sahara dispute, enhancing stability across the Sahel region. Conversely, it could heighten tensions with the Polisario Front and their supporters, underscoring the need for careful negotiation and dialog.
Editor: As we look to the future, what steps do you believe need to be taken to ensure a peaceful resolution to the Sahara dispute?
Dr. Sow: First and foremost, inclusive negotiations are essential. All stakeholders, including Morocco, the SADR, and other regional actors, must be part of the dialog. There’s also a need for trust-building initiatives that foster cooperation in economic development, as peace is often built on shared prosperity. Lastly, ongoing engagement from the international community, particularly the UN, is key to facilitating these discussions and ensuring that they yield productive outcomes.
Editor: Dr. Sow, thank you for this insightful discussion. Understanding the dynamics surrounding the Sahara dispute is critical as we move forward. Your expertise adds significant value to our audience’s comprehension of these complex issues.
Dr. Sow: Thank you for having me. It’s important to keep the conversation alive as we explore pathways to peace and stability in the region.
Editor: And thank you to our viewers for tuning in. Stay with us for more updates on international relations and regional disputes.