Algeria and Morocco remain deeply divided over the question of Western Sahara. Recently, Algerian diplomacy took the floor to express its categorical rejection of the autonomy plan proposed by Morocco, describing this initiative as empty of content and devoid of seriousness.
The Algerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Attafin its assessment of diplomacy for 2024, firmly denounced the Moroccan plan, presented since 2007 as an alternative to the UN settlement plan based on the organization of a self-determination referendum. According to him, this proposal, composed of “ three and a half pages “, constitutes only a “ filling » aimed at diverting the attention of the international community. M. To me stressed that none of the four successive personal envoys of the UN Secretary General took this plan as a basis for discussion, proof of his lack of credibility.
Algerian diplomacy insists on the colonial nature of the conflict, recalling that Western Sahara remains listed at the UN as a question of decolonization. Mr. Attaf declared that the Moroccan presence in these territories constitutes an unacceptable occupation and that only the self-determination of the Sahrawi people can guarantee a legitimate and lasting resolution. He also denounced the intentions of Moroccan “pseudo-autonomy”, which he described as a “maneuver” intended to prevent the exercise of Sahrawi rights.
The Algerian president Abdelmadjid Tebboune reinforced this position by describing the Moroccan plan as a “ falsified idea » born in France under Jacques Chiracaiming to impose on Sahrawis unacceptable choices. He criticized European supporters, notably France and Spain, accused of deviating from international legality by supporting this initiative. In a recent letter, Emmanuel Macron expressed his support for Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara occidentaldescribing the autonomy plan as “ just, lasting and negotiated political solution ».
These positions, although favorable to Moroccodo not change in any way, according to Algerthe legal nature of this conflict. Algerian diplomacy continues to advocate for a settlement consistent with international resolutions and reaffirms its attachment to UN legitimacy. This deep divergence between the two Maghreb neighbors illustrates the persistent tensions on this thorny issue, where each party remains stuck to its positions, making any negotiation process uncertain.
Morocco
