On behalf of the Moroccan delegation, I should like to commend the hopeful spirit marking our gathering today. This meeting is being held, by the grace of the Almighty, under UN auspices, and thanks to our common determination to discuss autonomy in the Sahara region. It is an opportunity for us to renew the ties of kinship with a group of our Sahrawi brothers. Indeed, we are all members of the same family. Wherever trials and tribulations may take our brothers, they are bound to come back to the merciful homeland, in accordance with the tolerant values of Islam, the logic of history and the inevitability of a common destiny.

I should like to extend to you and to His Excellency Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon the sincere thanks of the Kingdom of Morocco for the efforts made in preparing this meeting. The importance of this meeting does not simply come from the fact that it is officially taking place. In fact, Morocco sees in it an institutional framework for serious negotiations in order to reach a political solution to the Sahara question, in accordance with the pertinent Security Council resolution 1754.

We are happy that the Moroccan Initiative for negotiating autonomy for the Sahara region should offer this opportunity to meet with our brothers in order to work with them, with confidence and determination, and shape a promising future for our region. The Moroccan people, especially the inhabitants of its Sahara, and all Maghreb peoples pin high hopes on this important meeting. Let us, therefore, live up to their expectations.

Morocco accepted the invitation of the UN Secretary-General without any hesitation, thereby showing its willingness to participate, in good faith, in this promising effort, and to reiterate its determination to cooperate with the United Nations and with all the parties to achieve a consensual political solution.

Morocco expresses satisfaction at the presence of two neighbourly countries, Algeria and Mauritania. To the sister nation Algeria, which is hosting part of the Sahrawi population on its territory, Morocco wishes to stress, once again, that it will listen to all its constructive, unity-based proposals in order to reach a final settlement to this dispute, and put an end to a humanitarian problem on its soil.

We expect the sister nation Algeria to do all it can to make a constructive contribution to the efforts being made to find a solution to this artificial dispute. We also hope it will opt for wisdom and rise to this historic moment, since the proud Algerian people are known for their commitment to the symbiosis between them and the Moroccan people. Together, we would thus enter history, on the basis of unity, brotherhood, cooperation and the inevitability of good neighbourly relations.

Morocco also expresses thanks and appreciation to the Mauritanian delegation. The sister nation Mauritania has constantly sought to bring the parties closer to one another. We take pride in the time-honoured brotherly bonds uniting us to the Mauritanian people, and in the relations of cooperation, understanding, solidarity and neighbourliness which have always existed between us.


Excellency, Mr. Personal Envoy,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

We have come to this meeting in good faith, armed with confidence and determination to say: Yes to looking for a consensual political solution, for that is the only course of action towards a final, realistic solution to this dispute, away from any vain attempts to revive obsolete proposals. The Security Council, the United Nations, as well as successive UN Secretaries-General and their Personal Envoys concluded that those proposals could not be implemented, would only undermine negotiations, and would lead to a dead-end.

Notwithstanding constant, commendable efforts, it has been impossible for the United Nations Organizations to work out a realistic solution. In fact, and this is most regrettable, it noted in many of its resolutions that the stalemate simply persisted. The United Nations very clearly recognized that the 1991 Settlement Plan was inapplicable, and that the 2001 Framework Agreement and the 2003 Peace Plan were not practical because of the lack of agreement between the parties.

Given the deadlocked situation, which threatened to persist indefinitely, at the expense of the unity, stability and progress of the peoples of the region, and in response to calls from the United Nations as well as many sister and friendly nations, Morocco decided - amid unanimous national consensus - to propose another track for reaching a solution. Last April, it suggested the “Initiative for negotiating autonomy for the Sahara region”. It is a consensual proposal on which Morocco pins high hopes, and for which it exerted tremendous efforts.

In a characteristic spirit of responsibility and clear-sighted policy, Morocco made major concessions and sacrifices to achieve the above goal, in keeping with a tradition of achieving historical reconciliations. Morocco takes pride in these reconciliations, which were lauded by the international community and democratic countries in the world. Today, Morocco wants its Initiative to be the crowning element of that process, and to reflect the determination of all Moroccans to build a new, democratic and modern Morocco.

Appreciating this process, the Security Council, through resolution 1754 in which we take pride, welcomed the “serious and credible Moroccan efforts to move the process forward towards resolution”. This means new momentum has been created as a result of the Moroccan Initiative. And this has led the Security Council to call upon the parties to enter into negotiations. Reaffirming this pertinent approach, the Security Council called upon the parties to take “into account the developments of the last months”.

One might ask: what are those developments? The influential powers and the world community agree that the reference is to the Moroccan Initiative, which was tabled after serious preparations and extensive, in-depth consultations, at local, national and international levels, in accordance with a democratic, comprehensive approach. The latter is not merely designed to achieve reconciliation between our citizens from the Sahara; it goes beyond that because it is based on a strategic approach for the entire region.

The moment of truth has come. There can be no more hesitation, prevarication, obduracy, manoeuvring or tendentious interpretations. Breaking with past practice, resolution 1754 is now the new and only reference text whereby the international community is calling upon us to enter into negotiations, and to reach consensual agreement in good faith. The resolution clearly set the framework for these negotiations. It made consensus the very means whereby to achieve the final objective of reaching a just, final and consensual political solution which guarantees self-determination.

A political solution means refraining from the use of force, or issuing threats, or using violent means or any form of intimidation. Morocco never resorted to such tactics, even at the darkest hours, invariably preferring to favour wisdom and restraint. My country believes disagreements between brothers cannot be settled through the use of force. Hence, it remains committed to international covenants calling for the peaceful settlement of disputes. Similarly, the political solution, for the sake of which we are prepared to cooperate with the Security Council, also means that we have to put aside previous proposals, which proved to be inappropriate and inapplicable.

A consensual solution means that there is no room for unilateral solutions. That is why Morocco suggested its Initiative, to serve as a basis for negotiations, not be an end in itself. Agreement on the solution should come before any discussion on details.

A just settlement means a solution where there is no winner and no loser, instead of perpetuating tensions in the region. A final, irreversible solution means we can devote our attention to the real problems of the upcoming generations, and forge ahead with unity, democracy and development. Such a solution would guarantee a modern, sound form of self-determination, which preserves the unity and security of states. That is the purpose of consensual autonomy.

The Initiative and the ensuing Security Council resolution constituted a watershed because they were based on historical truth, political realism and commitment to international legality. As far as negotiations are concerned, the Kingdom of Morocco is, admittedly, committed to serious, credible action. It is determined to strive in good faith to ensure the success of these negotiations, and to make positive contributions so as to resolve this protracted dispute, in accordance with the spirit of its constructive Initiative.


Excellency, Mr. Personal Envoy,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

The Moroccan Initiative is not a static, non-negotiable proposal. It is rather an open initiative which can be developed and enriched within the framework of consensual consultations. We should like to point out, once again, that we are prepared to discuss the Initiative as the most appropriate basis for achieving a final, political solution. It can lead to a historic, compromise solution that is consistent with international legality and the principle of self-determination, as provided for in General Assembly resolutions and confirmed by international practice.

As stipulated in the Security Council resolution, only the negotiated agreement will define self-determination. In this respect, and given Morocco’s historical rights and the sacred ties binding it to its Sahara, autonomy - as practised in democratic countries and defined in modern law – constitutes an appropriate tool for the exercise of this right, which Morocco is advocating. Given its democratic experience, Morocco is in a position to achieve optimal implementation of the autonomy plan, in a way that suits the country’s specificities and those of the region, within the framework of Morocco’s sovereignty and its inalienable national unity and territorial integrity. Since time immemorial, the Saharan tribes and territory have always formed a basic component of our Moroccan identity.

The Initiative also fully takes into account international standards. The extensive powers given the Sahara region will make it possible for all people who are from the region and those who live there to shape their own future, within a single country which is committed to solidarity. This is fully in line with the new social project spearheaded by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, a project based on promotion of democracy, advancement of human rights, modernity, human development and openness to the Kingdom’s regional environment.

Under the Moroccan Initiative, all Sahrawis - those inside the region as well as those outside - shall enjoy life in dignity and full-fledged citizenship. Better still, the Initiative will make it possible for them to play a key role in all of the autonomous region’s institutions, and, more broadly, throughout the country and in all its national institutions.

The Moroccan Initiative is designed to serve the cause of peace. It is a call for full reconciliation, stronger brotherly ties, family reunification and tribal unity. Morocco is calling for concerted efforts on the part of all those concerned to pull the carpet from under the feet of those who fuel the dispute - and who are the prime beneficiaries -  lest they continue to sow the seeds of division between members of the same families. Similarly, the Initiative provides a precious opportunity to put an end to the exile and sufferings of the populations concerned, who have had to endure the terrible hardships brought about by separation and deprivation.

Through this Initiative, Morocco is welcoming all its sons and daughters with open arms. It is ready and willing to contribute to historic reconciliation between all people from the region, wherever they may be. Mutually agreed autonomy would put these people’s fate in their own hands, for it is they who will give the final agreement, by means of a referendum.


Excellency, Mr. Personal Envoy,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

In a little over thirty years, the regional and international landscape has changed. Morocco, too, has changed at all levels. The world put an end to the Cold War, of which this dispute is an appalling legacy. Today, it is necessary to open to the outside world, and to the rise to the challenges of democracy, human rights, life in dignity, economic and social development, Maghreb integration, stability and cooperation in the Sahel and the Mediterranean, as well as the preservation of regional and international peace and security.

The Kingdom of Morocco, which is committed, in its domestic and foreign policy, to achieving these goals, is deeply aware of the major stakes and challenges involved. It therefore stands against any introverted inclinations or isolationist policies, which could only spell trouble for the region. Morocco considers that with the fall of the Berlin Wall, the era of dogmatism came to an end, and that globalization and its constraints are now storming the world. In this context, ideologies collapsed, as the verdict of history was served. Let us, therefore, not miss the historic opportunity of forming solid blocs, of rising to the challenge of promoting democracy and development, and confronting the post-9/11 terrorist perils.

The negotiation process we are about to start today means we have to face up to our responsibilities vis-à-vis future generations. And they are asking the conscientious minds:

      Do we want the humanitarian tragedy endured by our Sahrawi brothers in the camps to get worse? Certainly not. We cannot accept that. We want them to live in their country, and to fully enjoy freedom, life in dignity and the benefits of full-fledged citizenship.

      Is the objective to fuel tensions in the region and pave the way for balkanization, with the risk that all peoples and tribes in the region might be engulfed? Morocco is keen to protect our region against divisions and instability, and to ensure its unity in this era of strong blocs and coalitions.

      Shall we sit idle while the threat of organized crime and terrorism is getting bigger and bigger? Or shall we try and shield our countries against these perils, which cannot be ascribed to a specific country or faith? The security and stability of Morocco, and those of its neighbours and, indeed, the entire region form one indivisible whole.

Our future lies in reconciliation, peace and regional cooperation. They are the right way to building the Arab Maghreb Union, with its five member States, in accordance with the letter and spirit of the founding Marrakech Treaty. As far as the Kingdom of Morocco is concerned, building the Arab Maghreb Union is as strategic as it is indispensable. It is essential for the promotion of African solidarity and for consolidating our ties with our partners in the region.

We understand that this will be a long, strenuous process. But we are determined to forge ahead and to make it succeed, thanks to a constructive spirit, wisdom, clear-sightedness and a prospective vision. We will not be deterred by plots, intrigues and provocations. Our commitment to the founding Treaty of Marrakech and to the bonds of brotherhood is too strong for us to give in to provocative acts. The entire Moroccan people and all components of the Moroccan society, united under the leadership of their King, the Commander of the Faithful, are deeply convinced that the above objectives can be achieved. It is in good faith and without any narrow-minded calculations that we hold out our hand to our brothers from the Kingdom’s southern provinces, as well as to our neighbours and to their peoples.

We hold out our hand to our Algerian brothers, whom we expect to understand that all Moroccans are firmly attached to their immutable values, particularly the Kingdom’s sovereignty, national unity and territorial integrity. We will continue to reach out to them, whatever the hardships. Let us, therefore, pledge to work hand in hand, for unity is strength.

The Kingdom of Morocco commits itself - before the United Nations and the international community - to engaging in serious negotiations, with an open mind and a firm determination to reach a final, consensual political solution. Morocco will remain faithful to the bonds of brotherhood and will work for the sake of the inevitable integration to come.

To achieve the above objectives, Morocco will be counting on the support and wisdom of the Personal Envoy, as well as on the determination of the UN Secretary-General, the Security Council and the international influential powers. My country hopes all the parties involved will seize this opportunity and embrace the spirit of reconciliation and forgiveness, which are among the foremost teachings of Islam. Our aim is to achieve a successful outcome. To this end, we are prepared to cooperate with all the parties concerned, and to take, in a determined and responsible way, all the measures and decisions required to implement the promising autonomy initiative. Morocco is prepared to face the demands of the current juncture with the same seriousness and dependability which characterized the preparation of the Initiative for negotiating autonomy for the Moroccan Sahara region.

What we need is negotiation and consensus-building, until a political agreement is reached; a final agreement - within the United Nations - on extensive autonomy, and nothing but autonomy, which is consistent with local and national specificities and immutable values, as well as with international standards, and with the international legality governing our meeting today.

This is a historic moment which is putting us in the spotlight. Let us, therefore, live up to the expectations of Maghreb peoples, of our friends and of the international community. Let us shoulder the historic responsibilities of the moment.

“(Our Lord) decide between us and our people in truth, for You are the best to decide.". The Word of God is Truth.

Wassalamu alaikum warahmatullah wabarakatuh.

I am honoured to speak to you as a member of the Moroccan delegation and as President of the Royal Advisory Council for Saharan Affairs, which represents all Sahrawis. The Council’s representation reflects the region’s history, customs and values, which are themselves the product of a deep-seated tradition of honesty and loyalty, and of a time-honoured heritage.

The Council has played an important part in the historic shift which has marked the search for a consensual solution to the Sahara issue.

Today, I am happy to convey directly the viewpoint of the majority, which has seldom had the opportunity to express its views freely, and to make its voice heard within the United Nations and to the international community.

This is not only a historic moment, but also a precious opportunity which must not be wasted. It is an opportunity for direct brotherly contacts, and we should avail it in order to solve this problem once and for all, and break the current impasse. Today, the national, regional and international environment is more suitable than ever for putting an end to the suffering of our people in the camps, stopping family divisions and achieving true reconciliation. This can be a turning point in our attempts to find serenity and peace of mind, and reach a solution that would satisfy all parties and bring joy to our loved ones. It should be pointed out, in this respect, that conditions in the Sahara have immensely changed, thanks to the process of economic, political, social and cultural development, and to the promotion of democracy.

Today’s Sahara has nothing to do with the Sahara of the colonial era. Thanks to the deep, extensive changes that have affected the Saharan population, community and territory, the Sahara can, today more than at any time in the past, serve as the venue for reconciliation and as a forum for overcoming the legacy of the past.

As a son of the region, who witnessed first-hand this question’s developments, I can say that the question of the Sahara requires much objectivity and pragmatism as well as assessment of the facts as they are, especially with respect to the solid time-honoured ties that have always existed between the region’s inhabitants on one hand, and Morocco and its august Kings, on the other, as has been attested, for centuries, by the sacred bond of allegiance (Bei’a).

For these reasons, it became evident to all observers and to the international community, over the course of 32 years, that all attempts, approaches and plans which ignored these bonds simply failed. This means that any future attempt or plan which does not take into consideration these deep-rooted bonds and their strong impact on Sahrawis, will be of no avail.
Hence, we believe that the most appropriate solution to this question consists in the historic initiative of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, over which the members of the Royal Advisory Council for Saharan Affairs worked in a spirit of great dedication and transparent, genuine, democratic participation. The aim was to come up with a compromise solution that would satisfy all parties. We believe this is the only realistic and feasible compromise solution to the Sahara issue, a solution which clearly guarantees the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Morocco, and which unambiguously recognizes the political, economic, social and cultural rights of the Sahara populations, as well as our legitimate right to run our affairs ourselves, on our territory, within the framework of the Kingdom of Morocco’s sovereignty. This is the solution which will enable the peoples of the Arab Maghreb to take a fresh start and achieve the paramount project of building the Maghreb, which is the dream of all peoples in the region.

The autonomy project - to which the sons of the region have contributed in a direct, democratic manner - has all it takes to be successful. It provides for all the institutions needed and the mechanisms which will make it possible for all of us - without any exception - to take our future into our own hands. This will be done through the Sahrawi executive branch, the democratically-elected Parliament, the local judicial body, and all other agencies and means required for the proper running of institutions.

There is ample room for us to negotiate all provisions in the Initiative, and to improve it with constructive proposals, taking into account the Initiative’s essence.

This initiative which was recognised worldwide as serious, credible and unprecedented is a guarantee that a speedy solution will be found to this issue, and that the dispute will be over as soon as possible. In addition, this meeting has aroused such hopes and aspirations among our families, the international community and the peoples of the region, that we have no alternative but to rise to their expectations. We must appreciate the true significance of this opportunity. No one has the right to waste it, especially for the sake of the sons of the Sahara who have suffered from too much waiting, missed opportunities and unrealistic plans.

Our people are looking forward to a solution. In camps and wherever else they may be, they are convinced that the only possible solution lies in this initiative. Our brothers in the Polisario Front should not regard it as a defeat or a concession. They should rather perceive it as a victory for what they have fought for over the past 32 years. It safeguards all they have stood for: reconciliation, consensus, and the genuine political, economic, cultural and social gains they have achieved. In politics, the aim of a struggle is to come up with tangible achievements. This is not a struggle for the sake of struggle. In addition, we have but few options before us.

The first alternative is to opt for a feasible, realistic and appropriate solution which is in line with the UN efforts to reach a political, consensual solution. This consists in the autonomy initiative which is rightly regarded as self – determination through consensus, compromise and mutual concessions, and which implies that each party should review its claims downward. I believe this is the view of the overwhelming majority of Sahrawis. They are eager to see the signing take place today, the relief and salvation take place today, and everybody enjoy victory today.

The second alternative is a rather negative, nihilistic option, because nobody is happy with it, it serves nobody and it brings only woes onto the region, creating more divisions and hardships for our people.

Morocco, under the leadership of its King, Amir Al Muminin (Commander of the Faithful), and with the participation of all social components, strata, affiliations and productive forces, urges you to rise to this defining moment in our history, as a unique opportunity generated by this bold autonomy initiative.

The Kingdom of Morocco, where Sahrawis have always formed a cornerstone in the shaping of the state, especially over the past 14 centuries since the inception of the national state based on Islam and monarchy, is appealing to your hearts and minds, and to the genuine sense of patriotism you have displayed in order to build a united, democratic and prosperous Morocco.

I, therefore, urge my brothers, the members of the Polisario Front to act judiciously and wisely, seek good guidance and comply with the call of wisdom. I call on you to make relevant, realistic, but dignified decisions which will bring joy to every Sahrawi household and tent, and to the heart of every Sahrawi child, youth, man, woman and elderly person, wherever they may be. We want to take this region of ours forward, relying on a promising, future-oriented vision, for the sake and in the best interest of the whole region. Let us not disappoint the hopes our people have pinned on all of us.

“If Allah knows any good in your hearts, He will give you better than that had been taken from you”.

Wassalamu alaikum warahmatullah wabarakatuh.

(Unofficial translation)