Côte d’Ivoire has expressed its unwavering support for Morocco’s autonomy plan regarding the Moroccan Sahara, highlighting its significance in resolving the ongoing regional dispute. During a recent session of the UN General Assembly, a representative from Côte d’Ivoire emphasized that Morocco’s proposal aligns with the United Nations Charter, Security Council resolutions, and international law.
The diplomat noted that this autonomy initiative provides the local population with vital political, economic, and social rights, allowing them to democratically select their representatives. He pointed out the participation of local elected officials in previous Geneva round tables and C24 meetings, underscoring their engagement in the political process.
Côte d’Ivoire reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the UN Secretary-General and his envoy for the Moroccan Sahara in their mission to find a lasting and mutually acceptable solution. The representative praised Morocco’s dedication to the political process led by the UN and encouraged the continuation of discussions, recalling positive outcomes from prior meetings in Geneva.
Highlighting the socio-economic progress in the southern provinces, the diplomat recognized Morocco’s new development model launched in 2015, which reinforces the validity of the autonomy plan. He noted that significant investments in the Moroccan Sahara are enhancing the well-being of its residents and contributing to better development metrics.
On the human rights front, Côte d’Ivoire commended Morocco’s efforts to promote human rights in the region, praising the work of regional commissions of the National Human Rights Council in Dakhla and Laayoune. The representative acknowledged Morocco’s collaboration with the UN Human Rights Office and its engagement with special procedures of the UN Human Rights Council, asserting that these initiatives have garnered recognition from the Security Council.
Ultimately, Côte d’Ivoire calls for all parties involved to work together in a spirit of realism and compromise to achieve a peaceful and conclusive resolution to this long-standing regional issue.
