Côte d’Ivoire endorses Morocco’s autonomy initiative for Sahara

Côte d’Ivoire has emphatically reaffirmed its full support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative, aimed at resolving the long-standing dispute over Sahara. This declaration, made during the UN Committee of 24 (C24) regional seminar in Dili, Timor-Leste, underscores the West African nation’s commitment to diplomatic actions that promote stability in the region.

The Ivorian representative highlighted Morocco’s substantial efforts towards a political solution based on compromise, noting that the autonomy initiative has garnered support from 117 UN member states, representing over 60% of the total. This backing includes endorsements from two permanent members of the Security Council, reflecting a significant international consensus.

The diplomat asserted that Morocco’s initiative is serious and credible, in full compliance with international law, the UN Charter, and relevant UN resolutions. He emphasized that it uniquely considers the specificities of the Moroccan Sahara, enabling local inhabitants to actively participate in the political and socio-economic management of the region.

He pointed out that residents in the Moroccan Sahara are empowered to elect their local and national representatives through regular democratic processes, showcasing the initiative's commitment to democratic principles.

The Ivorian envoy celebrated the presence of elected officials from the Moroccan Sahara at the C24 seminar, illustrating the region's integration into national discourse. He further noted the economic benefits stemming from Morocco’s investments in the southern provinces, which have notably improved living standards and the human development index since the launch of a new development model in 2015.

Côte d’Ivoire, alongside over 30 nations that have established consulates in Laâyoune or Dakhla, has taken tangible steps to affirm its support. The inauguration of its consulate general in Laâyoune on February 18, 2020, marked a significant diplomatic milestone, becoming the fifth such mission in the city.

The Ivorian representative acknowledged Morocco’s enhanced role in regional human rights initiatives, particularly the cooperation with the High Commissioner for Human Rights. He argued that these commendable actions validate the credibility of Morocco’s broad autonomy initiative.

Moreover, Senegal has echoed this support, with Ambassador Diamane Diome stating that Morocco’s initiative aligns with international law and various Security Council resolutions. He too emphasized Senegal’s commitment, having opened a consulate general in the Moroccan Sahara on April 5, 2021.

This wave of support from African nations signals a notable shift in the geopolitical landscape, as even former advocates of the Algeria-backed Polisario Front reconsider their positions. The growing coalition in favor of Morocco’s plan is poised to challenge the separatist narrative at the UN General Assembly, advocating for the removal of Sahara from the list of non-self-governing territories.

As Morocco continues to secure diplomatic victories, the ongoing support from Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal highlights a broader trend of regional alignment in favor of its autonomy initiative. Both nations have called for continued engagement in the UN-led political process, stressing the importance of compliance with military agreements and urging all parties to respect the ceasefire.

The tone and spirit of these diplomatic appeals serve as a strong rebuke to any lingering aspirations for separatist statehood, reinforcing the message that stability and cooperation will prevail in the region.