Algeria, South Africa Discuss Western Sahara Conflict

Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf and his South African counterpart Ronald Lamola discussed the Western Sahara conflict on December 14, 2024, in Algiers. The meeting took place on the sidelines of a ministerial session focused on implementing the outcomes of the seventh session of the Joint High Committee for Cooperation between the two countries.

Both ministers reviewed bilateral relations and ways to enhance cooperation, as well as fulfilling commitments outlined in the Strategic Partnership Declaration signed in December 2024. They exchanged views on several international issues, emphasizing the importance of coordinating positions and continuing consultations on matters of mutual interest.

The discussion on Western Sahara covered developments related to the conflict, including the UN Secretary-General's report and Security Council meetings held on October 7 and 8, 2024. The talks also included an update from the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy, Staffan de Mistura, on the prospects for resuming the political process.

This dialogue comes as Morocco's autonomy initiative gains traction in international efforts to find a political solution to the conflict. Algeria and South Africa reaffirmed their support for the Polisario Front and rejected unilateral solutions, opposing Morocco's autonomy plan. They aligned with the Polisario Front's objections to de Mistura's performance, citing concerns about his impartiality in managing international efforts.

Including Western Sahara in their bilateral discussions reflects ongoing diplomatic coordination between Algeria and South Africa on the issue, particularly within the African Union and the United Nations. International efforts to find a political solution to the conflict within the UN framework continue.

CONTEXT: The Western Sahara conflict has been a longstanding issue, with Morocco and the Polisario Front holding opposing views. The conflict has significant geopolitical implications, particularly for North Africa and the broader Middle East. The international community, including the UN and the African Union, has been involved in mediation efforts to resolve the dispute, making the positions of regional powers like Algeria and South Africa crucial to any potential resolution.