Moroccan Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi said on Monday that his country is committed to a genuine and pragmatic political solution, under the United Nations auspices, to resolve the Moroccan Sahara dispute.
Speaking at the 49th regular session of the Human Rights Council, Ouahbi said Morocco continues to support the efforts of the UN Secretary-General and his personal envoy, Staffan de Mistura, aimed at re-launching the series of talks, which were held in December 2018 and March 2019, with the participation of all parties, including the one responsible for creating and perpetuating the conflict - a reference to Algeria.
The minister reiterated Moroccan King Mohamed VI’s determination to resolve the dispute while maintaining the territorial integrity and national sovereignty of the kingdom.
Ouahbi said many friends and observers support the Morocco-proposed autonomy plan, which the UN Security Council considers as a serious and credible initiative, and the “only” prospect for the international political process.
The minister said his country affirms its commitment to continue efforts aimed at achieving international peace and security and combating new threats, primarily terrorism and violent extremism, and incitement to hatred and xenophobia, which are considered the greatest threats to human rights.
The kingdom was open to dialogue with all United Nations mechanisms and organizations, in line with its democratic rights, he said, adding that the recent Moroccan legislative and communal elections were “a clear commitment of the Kingdom to the right of political choice and the guarantee of the democratic process.”
He stressed that the kingdom will spare no effort in defending African issues, especially those related to development, combating poverty and immigration problems.
He highlighted Morocco’s commitment to safeguarding freedoms and guaranteeing rights, whether civil, political, or economic and social.
Ouahbi announced that Morocco has decided to stand as a candidate for the UN Human Rights Council for 2023-2025, and that Rabat enjoys the support of the African Union, Arab League, several other regional groups and friendly countries.
