Algeria and Russia have reaffirmed their commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Western Sahara conflict, with a focus on the pivotal role of the United Nations. According to a statement by the Russian Foreign Ministry, discussions between Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Alimov and Algerian Ambassador to Moscow Toufik Guamam took place on key issues in the Middle East and Africa. The talks specifically addressed the Western Sahara issue, ahead of the UN Security Council's review of the mandate of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO).
The Russian side reiterated its support for a fair, lasting, and mutually acceptable solution to the Western Sahara conflict, based on relevant UN Security Council resolutions and in line with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. Russia emphasized the importance of maintaining the current presence of the UN in the non-self-governing territory, including preserving stability on the ground, until a settlement is reached. This stance aligns with Algeria's position on the issue.
The meeting between Alimov and Guamam comes ahead of the UN Security Council meeting scheduled for October 31, which will discuss, among other issues, the extension of MINURSO's mandate. The coordination between Algeria and Russia on this matter suggests a unified approach to the Western Sahara conflict. According to retired diplomat Mustafa Zaghlash, the talks reflect a shared commitment to a peaceful resolution, with an emphasis on the UN's role.
Zaghlash noted that Algeria and Russia share common principles on the Western Sahara issue, including the pursuit of a fair, lasting, and mutually acceptable solution. He also highlighted the importance of maintaining the UN's pivotal role in the process, without rushing into a settlement. This approach contrasts with attempts by some parties, including the United States, to limit the UN's involvement.
The timing of the meeting between Alimov and Guamam is significant, as it coincides with diplomatic efforts to determine the future of MINURSO. The Russian stance on maintaining the current UN presence in the territory suggests a cautious approach to any changes that may affect the mission's role or mandate. Zaghlash emphasized that Russia's position is crucial, given its veto power in the UN Security Council.
The outcome of the UN Security Council meeting on October 31 will depend on the level of agreement among its members, including Russia. As a permanent member with veto power, Russia's stance will be essential in shaping the final decision on MINURSO's mandate. The international community is closely watching the developments, as a resolution to the Western Sahara conflict remains elusive.
The coordination between Algeria and Russia on the Western Sahara issue underscores the complexity of the conflict and the need for a unified international approach. As the UN Security Council prepares to discuss the matter, the positions of key players, including Russia, will be crucial in determining the future of MINURSO and the prospects for a peaceful resolution.
Key points
- Algeria and Russia emphasize the UN's pivotal role in resolving the Western Sahara conflict.
- The two countries stress the need for a fair, lasting, and mutually acceptable solution to the conflict.
- Russia's stance on the issue is crucial, given its veto power in the UN Security Council.
