Morocco’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Omar Hilale, asserted that Morocco’s autonomy plan is the “one and only” definitive solution to the contentious regional dispute over the Moroccan Sahara, during his statement at the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in New York.
He underscored the global support for Morocco’s initiative, backed up now by more than 100 countries, noting that approximately 30 states and regional organizations have now established general consulates in Laayoune and Dakhla, the two major cities in the region.
Morocco’s Ambassador reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to politically resolving challenges to regional and African development and stability, underlining the importance of pragmatic, compromise-based solutions.
The diplomat also highlighted the socioeconomic success of the southern provinces, achieved through a $10 billion growth strategy and an 81% completion rate, establishing the region as a hub for commerce.
UN Special Envoy Staffan de Mistura personally observed these achievements during his visit to Laayoune and Dakhla in early September, said Ambassador Hilale, achievements due to King Mohammed VI’s comprehensive plan for political, diplomatic, economic, social, and human development in the region.
The diplomat highlighted Morocco’s ongoing concern about the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Algeria’s Tindouf camps, and criticized Algeria’s unwillingness to register the population detained in the camps against their will, in violation of international law and Security Council resolutions.
Hilale also denounced the misuse of humanitarian aid intended for these populations, as indicated by multiple reports of international, regional, and non-governmental organizations, including the World Food Program’s most recent report dated January 2023.