The Moroccan government has expressed satisfaction with the UN Security Council's decision not to renew the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) on October 30, 2026. According to a statement from the Royal Cabinet, this development marks a significant step towards the definitive closure of the Sahara issue at the UN. The decision was made during a meeting of the UN Security Council, which coincided with the celebration of Morocco's Unity Day.
The non-renewal of MINURSO's mandate implies that the mission's presence in the southern provinces of Morocco, including its personnel, vehicles, equipment, and symbols, will cease in the coming days. This brings an end to a 35-year-long presence that Morocco views as an outdated relic. The mission was initially established to oversee a referendum in Western Sahara, but its mandate has been repeatedly extended without achieving its original objective.
The Royal Cabinet statement emphasized that the end of MINURSO's mandate signifies a shift in Morocco's approach to managing the Sahara issue, moving from a mere administrative approach to a more transformative one. This change is part of a broader effort to assert Morocco's sovereignty over its southern provinces. The statement also noted that the decision marks the end of the UN Security Council's periodic meetings and reports on the Sahara issue.
The Moroccan government has reiterated its commitment to maintaining a ceasefire in the region, while ensuring the integrity of its territory, national security, and the well-being of its citizens. The country is also pursuing a diplomatic effort, launched by King Mohammed VI, to garner international support for its position on the Sahara issue. This initiative has already secured backing from over two-thirds of UN member states, including some permanent members of the UN Security Council.
The Royal Cabinet statement also highlighted that the non-renewal of MINURSO's mandate is expected to lead to the removal of the Sahara issue from the UN Security Council's agenda. This development is seen as a significant achievement for Morocco, which has long sought to resolve the issue in its favor. The statement also mentioned that similar actions will be taken within other UN bodies to reinforce this new approach.
Morocco's position on the Sahara issue has been centered on the autonomy of the region under Moroccan sovereignty. This stance has gained significant international support, with many countries viewing it as a viable solution to the long-standing dispute. The Moroccan government has expressed its satisfaction with the current developments, while emphasizing its continued commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the issue.
The decision not to renew MINURSO's mandate has been hailed as a major breakthrough for Morocco, marking a significant shift in the international approach to the Sahara issue. As the country moves forward with its diplomatic efforts, it is likely to continue to face challenges and opportunities in its quest to assert its sovereignty over the region. The outcome of these efforts will likely have far-reaching implications for the stability and security of the region.
Key points
- Morocco welcomes UN Security Council's non-renewal of MINURSO mandate as a step towards resolving the Sahara issue.
- The non-renewal of MINURSO's mandate implies an end to the mission's 35-year presence in Morocco's southern provinces.
- Morocco's diplomatic efforts, led by King Mohammed VI, have secured backing from over two-thirds of UN member states for its position on the Sahara issue.
