United Nations (New York) – During an open debate at the UN Security Council on “The role of young people in combating security challenges in the Mediterranean”, held Wednesday in New York, the Algerian Minister of Foreign Affairs , Ahmed Attaf, made biased references to the Moroccan Sahara and a fallacious parallel with Palestine.
Responding to the tendentious lies of the Algerian minister, the ambassador, permanent representative of Morocco to the UN, Omar Hilale wanted to recall, if necessary, that Morocco irreversibly covered its Sahara in 1975.
The ambassador affirmed that “peace and security in the region continue to be threatened by non-compliance with international law, the expansion of terrorism, interference in the internal affairs of neighboring countries, encouragement of separatism and the use of separatist armed groups linked to terrorism to threaten the territorial integrity of the member states of the region, as is the case for the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Morocco which has irreversibly covered its Sahara in 1975”.
The Moroccan diplomat also noted that the Kingdom has adopted, for several decades, an immigration policy which aims to be humanist, pragmatic and united, offering a land of welcome and dignity to refugees and young migrants, their guaranteeing equal access to education, housing, health, vocational training and employment.
“This is unfortunately not the case for neighboring countries which continue to subject migrants, on their territories, to the worst violations of their rights, including abandoning them in the middle of the desert,” asserted the ambassador who , in addition, exposed the human rights violations suffered by the populations living in the Tindouf camps, in the South-East of Algeria.
Referring to the situation in the Mediterranean region, Mr. Hilale noted that this region, cradle of numerous civilizations and the three revealed religions, has become an epicenter of crises, war and tensions.
In this context, he insisted on respect for the principles of good neighborliness and the peaceful settlement of disputes in the region, stressing that these principles must not remain hollow or repeated only during meetings like today’s. .
These principles “must be respected and implemented on a daily basis by all Mediterranean countries, so that the Mare Nostrum truly becomes our common sea again, a sea of peace and hope for its young people” , he recommended, during this meeting held under the presidency of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Malta, Ian Borg, whose country chairs the Security Council for the month of April.
Ambassador Hilale noted that Morocco, an active and respected actor in the Mediterranean region, has concretized numerous commitments towards youth, in particular by including in its Constitution specific provisions for their empowerment and their participation in all aspects of socio-development. -economic, cultural and political.
“These actions clearly demonstrate the place of choice that young people occupy within our society,” he argued, stressing that His Majesty King Mohammed VI considers youth as the true wealth of the country and the heart of the New development model.
The diplomat also highlighted the leading role that Morocco plays in favor of peace and security in the Mediterranean region and beyond, noting that the Kingdom adopts multidimensional strategies, with regional cooperation and international at their center, to fight against the scourges of terrorism, violent extremism and transnational organized crime.
He reaffirmed that Morocco, under the enlightened leadership of His Majesty the King, continues to be a haven of peace in our region, and contributes to collective efforts to make the two shores of the Mediterranean a crossroads of peace and stability. , development, mutual respect, intercultural and civilizational dialogue, and an outstretched hand to all neighbors, for the well-being of all countries in the region.
Regarding the Palestinian question, the ambassador recalled that Morocco, whose Sovereign His Majesty King Mohammed VI is President of the Al-Quds Committee, reaffirms its immutable position in support of the legitimate right of the Palestinian people, particularly the establishment of its independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Interview between Time.news Editor and UN Affairs Expert Dr. Amina Rahmani
Time.news Editor: Good evening, and thank you for joining us today, Dr. Rahmani. We’re here to discuss the recent open debate at the UN Security Council on “The role of young people in combating security challenges in the Mediterranean.” It was quite a heated session, especially with the remarks made by Algeria’s Foreign Minister regarding the Moroccan Sahara. What were your initial thoughts on the developments during the debate?
Dr. Amina Rahmani: Good evening! Yes, it was indeed a significant moment. The debate highlighted major geopolitical tensions in the Mediterranean, particularly between Algeria and Morocco. The remarks made by Minister Ahmed Attaf did not just touch on historical grievances; they also reflected a broader narrative attempting to link the situation in the Moroccan Sahara with the Palestinian issue.
Editor: Ambassador Omar Hilale of Morocco responded strongly, reaffirming Morocco’s stance on its territorial claims. He emphasized the need for compliance with international law and the challenges posed by terrorism and separatism. How do you view Morocco’s position in this context?
Dr. Rahmani: Ambassador Hilale’s response underscores Morocco’s long-standing perspective on its sovereignty over the Sahara. By asserting that the issue was settled in 1975, Morocco aims to project stability and underscore its commitment to maintaining peace in the region. Highlighting the threats posed by terrorism and separatism is a strategic move, as it positions Morocco as a key player in regional security dynamics.
Editor: He also touched on immigration policies and mentioned the rights of migrants, comparing Morocco’s humanitarian approach with that of neighboring countries. How significant is this narrative for Morocco?
Dr. Rahmani: It’s very significant. By emphasizing its humanitarian immigration policies, Morocco seeks to distinguish itself as a model of stability and human rights in the region. This is a strategic framing, especially given the often negative portrayals of migration policies in some neighboring countries. It not only bolsters its international image but also appeals to younger populations, who are increasingly concerned with social justice and human rights issues.
Editor: Ambassador Hilale referred to the Mediterranean as a “sea of peace and hope” for its young people. In your view, is there a realistic path for achieving that vision amidst the current tensions?
Dr. Rahmani: It’s a challenge, but it’s not impossible. The first step is constructive dialogue and respecting the principles of good neighborliness. All Mediterranean countries must commit to resolving disputes peacefully, which requires trust-building measures and collaboration on common issues like migration, security, and economic development. With the right diplomatic engagement, there is potential for the Mediterranean to once again embody that vision of peace.
Editor: What role do you think youth can play in addressing these security challenges in the Mediterranean?
Dr. Rahmani: Young people are pivotal. They are the ones who experience the direct consequences of instability, and hence, they are often the vanguards of change. Empowering youth through education, civic engagement, and participatory platforms is crucial. They can drive initiatives that promote peace, challenge harmful narratives, and build networks across borders.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Rahmani, for your insights. Your perspective on the intersection of youth empowerment and regional stability is invaluable as we reflect on these critical issues facing the Mediterranean today.
Dr. Rahmani: Thank you for having me. It’s essential we continue these conversations to foster understanding and collaborative efforts toward a more peaceful Mediterranean.