The UN  chief voiced hope the parties would “ begin moving into a more intensive and substantive phase of discussions” according to a press release of  his spokesman issued on the eve of the third round of negotiations due on Monday , for three days (January 7-9)

The secretary general  recognized the fact that “it will take both time and patience to negotiate a mutually acceptable solution to this longstanding dispute” added the same source

The UN chief also expressed “ appreciation to the parties, and to the neighbouring states for accepting his invitation to the talks” which will take place under the mediation of the secretary-general(s personal envoy, Peter van Walum

In a press conference on Monday, Mr Ban reiterated “hope that is time the parties will be able to make good progress in this respect” declining comment on the polisario threat to esumer war on Morocco if negotiations fail.

He called for the parties concerned to show patience, determination, and good faith to settle the dispute through dialogue.

It is worth mentioning that .Morocco and the Polisario separatists have met twice in June and august 2007, as part of UN-led talks, following the Security Council resolutions 1754 and 1783.

The kingdom of Morocco presented a proposal to grant the Sahara a substantial autonomy while keeping sovereignty over the territory, this proposal was seen by the security council of the UN and the main capitals of the world as a serious and credible plan.