Bir Lehlou: The Government of the Sahrawi Republic has expressed disappointment over the United States' statement recognizing Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara.
According to Ghana News Agency, the reaction follows a news brief by the US Department of State Spokesperson Tammy Bruce, following Secretary of State Marco Rubio's meeting with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, where the Secretary reiterated the United States' recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Sahrawi Republic has issued a statement expressing deep regret at what it perceives as the US administration's pro-Morocco bias. They assert that this stance supports the Moroccan expansionist agenda against the Sahrawi Republic, which they claim violates international legality as outlined by the United Nations General Assembly and Security Council resolutions, as well as rulings from international courts.
The Sahrawi Government and the Frente POLISARIO emphasized the legal nature of Western Sahara as an unresolved decolonization issue. They highlighted that the conflict persists due to Morocco's failure to honor its commitments under the 1991 settlement plan, agreed upon with the Frente POLISARIO under the auspices of the Organisation of African Unity and the United Nations.
The statement also rejects any linkage between Western Sahara's decolonization and other geopolitical or transactional alliances. Furthermore, it underscores the necessity of addressing the Sahrawi question within the framework of international legality, emphasizing the right of the Sahrawi people to self-determination, independence, and sovereignty.
The Sahrawi party criticized the US's alignment with Morocco, suggesting it undermines the US's potential to play a constructive role in the UN-sponsored peace process in Western Sahara. They argue that this position could lead to further regional instability and diminish the US's ability to act as an impartial facilitator.
The statement calls attention to the past balanced approach of previous US administrations, which the Sahrawi Government believes was more aligned with American values and international law. They argue that this shift in policy undercuts the US's reputation as a promoter of peace and self-determination.
The Sahrawi Government reiterated their commitment to a just peace based on international legality, emphasizing respect for the Sahrawi people's will and their right to self-determination and independence.
