On October 29, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune addressed the Russia-Africa summit in Moscow, reaffirming his country's position on the Western Sahara conflict. His address, read on his behalf by Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb, emphasized that a just resolution to the decades-long colonial dispute is crucial to achieving security and stability in Africa. Tebboune stressed that eliminating the last remnants of colonialism, specifically the Western Sahara issue, is essential for the continent's progress.

The Algerian president expressed gratitude to Russia for its consistent support of the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination. He commended Russia's commitment to backing the UN's efforts and those of the Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General, aiming to find a fair, lasting, and mutually acceptable solution. This aligns with the UN Charter and relevant Security Council resolutions. Algeria welcomes the recent resumption of negotiations between the conflict parties under UN auspices.

Tebboune reiterated Algeria's support for a negotiated solution, emphasizing that a just and durable resolution can only be achieved through a consensual political agreement. This agreement should guarantee the Sahrawi people's authentic right to self-determination, in line with international law. The president's address reflects Algeria's long-standing commitment to resolving the Western Sahara conflict.

The Russia-Africa summit provided a platform for Tebboune to reaffirm Algeria's stance on Western Sahara, ahead of a UN Security Council vote on renewing the mandate of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO). The vote and negotiations are critical in determining the future of the disputed territory.

Algeria's position on Western Sahara has been consistent, emphasizing the need for a peaceful and negotiated solution that respects the Sahrawi people's rights. The country's support for the UN's efforts and its gratitude to Russia for its stance underscore the importance of international cooperation in resolving the conflict.

The Western Sahara conflict has been a longstanding issue in African and international diplomacy. A lasting resolution is contingent upon finding a mutually acceptable solution that addresses the Sahrawi people's aspirations for self-determination. Algeria's continued advocacy for a peaceful resolution reflects its commitment to regional stability and security.

The Russia-Africa summit highlighted the significance of international partnerships in addressing pressing continental issues, including the Western Sahara conflict. As the international community continues to grapple with the complexities of the dispute, Algeria's reiteration of its stance serves as a reminder of the need for sustained diplomatic efforts to achieve a just and lasting resolution.

Key points

  • Algeria's President Abdelmadjid Tebboune reiterated the country's demand for self-determination for the Sahrawi people at the Russia-Africa summit.
  • Tebboune expressed gratitude to Russia for its consistent support of the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination.
  • A just and durable resolution to the Western Sahara conflict can only be achieved through a consensual political agreement that guarantees the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.