- Abidjan Backs Morocco’s Proposal as the Most Credible Path to Resolving the Sahara Issue
RABAT — Côte d’Ivoire has reiterated its unwavering support for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan, describing it as the most credible, realistic, and practical framework for achieving a lasting political solution to the regional dispute over the Moroccan Sahara.
The position was reaffirmed during the regional seminar of the United Nations Committee of 24 (C24), held in Managua, where the Ivorian delegation underscored the growing international momentum behind Morocco’s initiative.
Growing International Support for Morocco’s Initiative
The Ivorian delegation highlighted that Morocco’s autonomy proposal continues to gain broad international endorsement, enjoying the support of nearly 130 countries as well as several members of the UN Security Council.
According to the delegation, the initiative is fully aligned with international law, the principles of the United Nations Charter, and successive Security Council resolutions, making it a credible foundation for a durable political settlement.
Côte d’Ivoire further noted that the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2797 strengthened international recognition of the autonomy plan as the central framework for advancing the UN-led political process.
Autonomy Plan Promotes Local Governance and Democratic Participation
The delegation emphasized that Morocco’s proposal takes into account the specific realities and aspirations of the region by granting local populations a significant role in managing their political, economic, and social affairs.
It pointed to the active participation of residents of the southern provinces in local, regional, and national elections, describing this democratic engagement as a reflection of inclusive governance. The delegation also welcomed the participation of elected representatives from the Sahara in discussions held under the auspices of the C24.
Development Projects Transform Southern Provinces
Highlighting the economic dimension of Morocco’s efforts, Côte d’Ivoire praised the impact of the New Development Model launched by Morocco in 2015 for the southern provinces.
The delegation noted that large-scale investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, renewable energy, and economic development have significantly improved living standards and human development indicators across the region.
These initiatives, it said, demonstrate Morocco’s long-term commitment to fostering sustainable growth and prosperity in the Sahara.
Recognition of Human Rights Progress
Côte d’Ivoire also commended Morocco’s continued efforts to strengthen human rights protections in the southern provinces.
The delegation cited the role of regional commissions of the National Human Rights Council in Laayoune and Dakhla, as well as Morocco’s ongoing cooperation with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.
These measures, it said, reflect Morocco’s commitment to promoting and safeguarding fundamental rights throughout the region.
Dakhla Consulate Reflects Strategic Commitment
Reaffirming its practical support for Morocco’s territorial integrity, Côte d’Ivoire recalled its decision to open a Consulate General in Dakhla.
The move was described as a clear expression of confidence in the region’s future and a demonstration of Abidjan’s commitment to supporting economic and social development in Morocco’s southern provinces.
Call for Greater Transparency in Tindouf Camps
The Ivorian delegation also expressed concern over reported humanitarian and human rights conditions in the Tindouf camps.
It renewed calls for the registration and census of camp populations in accordance with international humanitarian standards, stressing the importance of transparency and accountability in addressing the needs of those living in the camps.
Support for the UN-Led Political Process
Côte d’Ivoire reaffirmed that the United Nations remains the sole and legitimate framework for achieving a political resolution to the Sahara issue.
The delegation praised the efforts of UN Secretary-General António Guterres and his Personal Envoy, Staffan de Mistura, in advancing dialogue among the parties.
Concluding its statement, Côte d’Ivoire stressed that Resolution 2797 has further consolidated the UN-led political process based on Morocco’s autonomy initiative and called on all parties to demonstrate realism, compromise, and constructive engagement in pursuit of a lasting and mutually acceptable solution.
BY: The Times Union
