Sahrawi Diplomat: Self-Determination Right Non-Negotiable

Sahrawi representative to the UN, Sid Mohamed Ammar, stated that the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination is non-negotiable. He made this assertion after a Security Council meeting on the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) on Friday. Ammar, who is also the coordinator with MINURSO, addressed international media at the UN headquarters.

Ammar emphasized that the Security Council failed to adopt a new resolution regarding MINURSO. He noted that the Sahrawi leadership is currently studying this development and will issue a statement outlining their position in due course. He also highlighted that the US-drafted resolution ignores key concerns raised by the Polisario Front, as well as objective observations and proposals from several Security Council members.

The diplomat asserted that both the content and approach of the draft resolution represent a dangerous departure from established international law principles. These principles include those governing Western Sahara as a decolonization issue. By attempting to predefine the negotiation framework and final solution, the resolution undermines the Sahrawi people's free exercise of their inalienable right to self-determination and independence, as affirmed in relevant UN resolutions.

Furthermore, by seeking to “legitimize” Morocco's unauthorized occupation of Western Sahara, the resolution not only undermines the UN-led peace process but also sets a dangerous precedent threatening regional and international peace and security. Ammar expressed relief that the Security Council did not adopt the US-drafted resolution. He thanked Russia for opposing the resolution and China, Pakistan, and Somalia for abstaining.

Ammar praised Russia's stance, stating it sends a strong message to those attempting to undermine the UN-led peace process in Western Sahara. He noted that this position serves as a clear reminder that international law, justice, and sustainable peace cannot be compromised for political interests or deal-making. In conclusion, Ammar affirmed that the Sahrawi people have once again proven their resilience by thwarting a conspiracy orchestrated by certain countries.