Support for Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara is strengthening as multiple countries reaffirm their endorsement of Rabat’s proposed autonomy plan. Guatemala, Guinea, Burundi, Côte d’Ivoire, and Papua New Guinea are among the nations backing this initiative, aiming for a peaceful resolution to the enduring conflict.
During the C-24 sessions from June 10 to 11, representatives from these countries expressed their support for Morocco’s 2007 autonomy proposal. Carla Maria Rodriguez, Guatemala’s permanent representative to the UN, described the plan as a “realistic, credible, and serious basis for a negotiated solution within the framework of respect for Morocco’s territorial integrity and national sovereignty.”
Guinea’s UN representative, Paul Goa Zoumanigui, emphasized the initiative’s compliance with international law, the UN Charter, and relevant resolutions, calling it a viable compromise. Burundi also praised the establishment of consulates in Laayoune and Dakhla, highlighting Morocco’s expanding diplomatic ties.
Other nations, including Antigua and Barbuda, Senegal, and members of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC), reiterated their support for Morocco’s territorial claims during the C-24 sessions. In total, over 107 UN member states back the Moroccan proposal.
Côte d’Ivoire lauded the plan as a “credible, relevant, and unique” solution, transferring significant prerogatives to the Sahrawi population. Ivorian representative Tiemoko Moriko commended Morocco’s human rights advancements and cooperation with UN bodies, calling for renewed round table discussions involving Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania, and the Polisario Front. These talks, last held in 2018 and 2019, are deemed crucial for a lasting resolution.
Moriko also voiced concerns about humanitarian conditions in the Tindouf refugee camps in Algeria, managed by the Polisario, urging a population census in line with UNHCR recommendations and Security Council resolutions.
Papua New Guinea’s UN ambassador, Andrew Dopeke, echoed these concerns, particularly regarding human rights violations against women and children in the Tindouf camps. Dopeke also called for the resumption of round table talks and acknowledged Morocco’s significant investments in Western Sahara’s infrastructure, which have improved residents’ quality of life.
