The UN Security Council on Friday voted in favor of a resolution backing Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara as the “most feasible” solution for the disputed territory, triggering celebrations in Rabat, but angering Algeria.
Western Sahara is a mineral-rich former Spanish colony that is largely controlled by Morocco, but has been claimed for decades by the pro-independence Polisario Front, which is supported by Algeria.
The council had previously urged Morocco, the Polisario Front, Algeria and Mauritania to resume talks to reach an agreement.
Photo: AP
However, at the initiative of US President Donald Trump’s administration, the council shifted to support a plan, initially presented by Rabat in 2007, in which Western Sahara would enjoy autonomy under Morocco’s sole sovereignty.
The resolution, adopted by an 11-0 vote with three abstentions and Algeria refusing to participate, said autonomy for Western Sahara under Moroccan sovereignty may be the basis for future negotiations to resolve the 50-year-old conflict.
“Genuine autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty could constitute a most feasible solution,” the resolution said.
Moroccan King Mohammed VI lauded the vote as “historic,” saying “we are opening a new and victorious chapter in the process of enshrining the Moroccan character of the Sahara.”
In Rabat, thousands of people danced and sang to celebrate the vote.
“The Sahara is Moroccan and always has been,” chanted the joyful crowds, alternating the rhythm with the national anthem and other patriotic songs.
In Smara, a city in the disputed territory, residents set off fireworks as soon as the vote was announced.
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