Finland Backs Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara
In a significant diplomatic development, Finland has expressed its support for Morocco’s conflict/” title=”Morocco Edges Closer to Final Resolution in Western Sahara Conflict”>autonomy plan as a viable solution for the long-standing Western Sahara conflict. This announcement came after a meeting in Helsinki between Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and his Finnish counterpart, Elina Valtonen.
The two countries released a joint statement emphasizing Finland’s view of the Moroccan autonomy initiative, presented in 2007, as a “serious and credible contribution” to the UN-led political process. They believe it provides a solid foundation for a mutually acceptable resolution to the dispute.
Finland’s endorsement adds to the growing international momentum behind Morocco’s proposed solution. The autonomy plan, which proposes self-governance for Western Sahara under Moroccan sovereignty, has garnered increasing support in recent years. This shift in the international landscape is partly due to the plan’s focus on a realistic and pragmatic approach to resolving the conflict.
Both Finland and Morocco reaffirmed their commitment to the UN’s exclusive role in mediating the political process. They expressed support for the UN Security Council resolutions and the efforts of the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy in advancing a resolution.
The Western Sahara conflict, dating back to the 1970s, centers around the disputed territory’s claim to self-determination. Morocco considers Western Sahara an integral part of its territory, while the Polisario Front, a Sahrawi liberation movement, seeks independence.
The international community, represented by the UN, has been engaged in efforts to find a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict. The Moroccan autonomy plan, seen as a compromise by many countries, aims to provide a framework for self-governance in Western Sahara while preserving Morocco’s territorial integrity.
Finland’s support for the Moroccan autonomy plan signifies a positive step towards a negotiated and peaceful resolution to the Western Sahara conflict. It remains to be seen how this development will influence the ongoing UN-led political process and the positions of other international actors.
One Comment