Through his statement, Mr. Ohalnon said the Sahara issue was discussed, a similar situation to what it was in Northern Ireland, as dispute continued for many decades and no final solution was found until the year 1998 with the conclusion of an agreement between the conflicting sides. He hoped to find a solution to this problem that satisfies all parties.

This meeting comes on the eve of discussions held by Mr. Khalihenna official with Envoy of the Secretary-General to the Sahara, Mr. Walsum, which dealt with the issue of the Sahara and in particular autonomy in the southern regions.

Declaration by Mr. Ohalnon:

 "Of course we discussed this morning the problem of the Sahara and a very similar situation to what existed in Northern Ireland. The situation continued for decades, and no solution was found until 1998 through the conclusion of the Convention. We hope the problem of the Sahara will be solved to the satisfaction of all parties".