Russia’s position on the Western Sahara issue was recently reaffirmed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergey Lavrov during a press conference on the diplomatic assessment of 2024. He insisted on the need for a settlement based on the principle of self-determination and the will of the Sahrawi people.
This position is based on the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council concerning this territory, classified as non-autonomous by the UN since 1963. Sergei Lavrov’s statements underline the importance of respecting UN decisions in resolving this conflict. .
The important diplomatic issues surrounding Western Sahara
The Russian position contrasts with that of Moroccowhich actively promotes its autonomy plan for Western Sahara through diplomatic channels. This project has already received the support of several European countries, notably the Hungary, Estonia and the Francethe latter having positioned itself as an important ally of Morocco on this issue.
The positioning of the Russia on this issue reflects a broader strategy aimed at strengthening its influence in Africa. By supporting the principle of self-determination, Moscow stands out from Western positions on this territorial conflict, even though it does not officially take a position in favor of Algerian demands. As a reminder, Algeria firmly supports the independence of this region.
A somewhat specific international context
This divergence of views between the different international actors illustrates the complexity of the Saharan file and the geopolitical issues surrounding it. The Russian position is part of a context of growing rivalries for influence on the African continent and more generally in the Maghreb where emerging economies are increasingly attracting the eye of the great powers of the world.
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