Mauritania has reiterated its support for the United Nations' efforts to resolve the Western Sahara conflict, reaffirming its neutral stance on the issue. During a speech at the UN General Assembly, Mauritania's Foreign Minister, Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug, expressed his country's backing for UN resolutions and the work of the UN Special Envoy for Western Sahara, Staffan de Mistura. This stance is consistent with Mauritania's historical position on the matter.

As a neighboring country to Morocco, Mauritania has maintained a delicate balance in its relations with both Morocco and the Polisario Front. The country has been a non-aligned observer in the UN negotiations on Western Sahara, hosting delegations from both parties. Mauritania's foreign policy on Western Sahara is often described as "positive neutrality" by experts, reflecting its cautious approach to the conflict.

The Western Sahara issue has been a longstanding concern for the international community, with the UN playing a key role in seeking a peaceful resolution. The conflict dates back to the 1970s, when Morocco and the Polisario Front clashed over the territory. Despite numerous efforts, a lasting solution has yet to be found. Mauritania's reaffirmation of its support for UN resolutions is seen as a significant development in the ongoing diplomatic efforts.

During the UN General Assembly session, Merzoug emphasized the importance of finding a lasting and sustainable solution to the Western Sahara conflict. He called on all parties to engage in constructive dialogue, with the aim of achieving a peaceful and negotiated settlement. The international community has welcomed Mauritania's stance, seeing it as a positive contribution to the ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Morocco has been actively engaged in the UN negotiations on Western Sahara, seeking a solution that takes into account its sovereignty claims over the territory. The Polisario Front, on the other hand, has been pushing for the right to self-determination for the Sahrawi people. The international community has consistently called for a peaceful and negotiated solution, with the UN playing a key role in facilitating the talks.

Mauritania's neutral stance on Western Sahara has been shaped by its historical and geographical ties to the region. The country has sought to maintain good relations with both Morocco and the Polisario Front, hosting talks and negotiations on the issue. By reaffirming its support for UN resolutions, Mauritania has demonstrated its commitment to finding a peaceful solution to the conflict.

The international community has welcomed Mauritania's reaffirmation of its neutral stance on Western Sahara, seeing it as a positive development in the ongoing diplomatic efforts. The UN has consistently called for a peaceful and negotiated solution to the conflict, with the aim of achieving a lasting and sustainable resolution. Mauritania's stance is seen as an important contribution to this effort, reflecting its commitment to regional stability and cooperation.

Key points

  • Mauritania reaffirms its support for UN resolutions on Western Sahara.

Share this story

Written by

SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.