In a significant development at the United Nations Committee of 24 (C24) meeting held in Managua, Nicaragua, both Burundi and Sierra Leone have reaffirmed their unwavering support for Morocco's Autonomy Plan concerning the Sahara. This endorsement comes at a time when international backing for Morocco's proposal is reportedly growing, with over 130 countries now expressing their support.
During the session, Burundi articulated that the Autonomy Plan represents the sole viable path towards a sustainable political resolution to the ongoing dispute. The delegation emphasized the importance of UN Security Council Resolution 2797, which it characterized as a pivotal turning point that positions Morocco's proposal as the benchmark for future negotiations. They urged all parties involved—including Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania, and the Polisario Front—to re-engage constructively with the UN-led process, guided by the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy.
Furthermore, Burundi highlighted the precarious security situation in the region, referencing a recent attack in Smara that poses a threat to the fragile stability established thus far. The delegation reiterated the necessity of adhering to the ceasefire and acknowledged Morocco's ongoing collaboration with the UN mission deployed on the ground. In discussing conditions in the southern provinces, Burundi pointed to significant advancements in infrastructure, social services, and environmental initiatives that have positively impacted daily life. They also noted the active participation of elected representatives from the region in UN discussions, showcasing a commitment to local political engagement.
On the topic of human rights, Burundi acknowledged Morocco's efforts to engage with UN mechanisms and highlighted its institutional framework at the regional level. However, the delegation expressed concerns regarding the situation in the Tindouf camps, advocating for enhanced transparency in humanitarian aid management and more rigorous oversight of population data.
Sierra Leone's representative to the UN, Kalilu Totangi, echoed many of Burundi's sentiments, framing the Moroccan Autonomy Plan as compliant with international law and in line with the Security Council's directives. He underscored that Resolution 2797 lays a solid foundation for advancing the political dialogue. Additionally, Sierra Leone pointed out the positive developments in the southern provinces, mentioning investments in infrastructure and initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable growth and cultural preservation, which are essential for improving local living conditions and ensuring long-term stability.
Both countries underscored the continued need for the UN Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy to play a pivotal role in seeking a political solution that is both realistic and sustainable. They reiterated the importance of maintaining the ceasefire and continued coordination with the UN mission to support stability in the region. The collective statements made by Burundi and Sierra Leone reflect an emerging diplomatic consensus, with an increasing number of nations rallying behind Morocco's Autonomy Plan as the framework for resolving the protracted dispute over the Sahara.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
