The United Nations has initiated the liquidation of its MINURSO mission in the Sahara, a process that began on November 1, following the expiration of the mission's mandate. This move comes after the UN Security Council failed to reach an agreement on the extension of the mission, with Russia exercising its veto power. The Moroccan government has stated that it will ensure an orderly departure of the mission.
The Moroccan Foreign Minister, Nasser Bourita, has reassured that there will be no expulsion of the MINURSO personnel and that the departure of the mission will be carried out in an orderly manner. He also emphasized that the veto by Russia presents an opportunity to redefine the rules of the UN Security Council. Bourita's comments come as the Moroccan government is keen to maintain stability in the region.
The UN Secretary-General has called on all parties involved to exercise restraint and reiterated the UN's commitment to finding a political solution to the Sahara conflict. The Secretary-General's statement reflects the UN's continued engagement in the region, despite the winding down of the MINURSO mission. The Moroccan government has welcomed the UN's commitment to finding a peaceful solution.
The Russian veto on the extension of the MINURSO mission has significant implications for the region. The veto has prevented the UN Security Council from adopting a resolution to extend the mission's mandate, leading to the current situation. The Moroccan government has expressed disappointment at the Russian veto, which it sees as an attempt to undermine the UN's role in the region.
The Moroccan ambassador to the UN, Omar Hilale, has rejected Algeria's claim that it should be treated as a simple observer in the Sahara conflict. Hilale's comments reflect Morocco's position that Algeria has a more significant role to play in the conflict. The exchange between Morocco and Algeria highlights the complexities of the Sahara conflict.
The Moroccan Parliament is set to convene an extraordinary session on Monday to discuss the implications of the UN's decision on the MINURSO mission. The session is expected to focus on the impact of the UN's move on the region and the next steps for Morocco. The Moroccan government has stated that it will work closely with the UN to find a peaceful solution to the conflict.
The liquidation of the MINURSO mission marks a significant development in the Sahara conflict. The UN's move is seen as a setback for the peace process, but Morocco remains committed to finding a peaceful solution. The situation in the Sahara remains complex, with multiple parties involved and competing interests at play.
Key points
- The UN has started winding down its MINURSO mission in the Sahara following the expiration of its mandate.
- Morocco has ensured an orderly departure of the mission and remains committed to finding a peaceful solution to the Sahara conflict.
- The Russian veto on the extension of the MINURSO mission has significant implications for the region.
