Russia and Mozambique chose to abstain from voting on the Security Council resolution concerning the Sahara on Monday. This resolution aimed to extend the mandate of the MINURSO mission for an additional year, and was passed by 13 votes.
The United States of America expressed its support for the resolution, emphasizing its backing of Staffan de Mistura, the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy to the Sahara, and the MINURSO mission. The U.S. also endorsed the Moroccan autonomy plan as a politically acceptable solution. The Security Council’s decision conveyed the urgency of a political resolution while lamenting the lack of consensus on MINURSO’s mandate renewal.
The U.S. representative emphasized their nation’s support for de Mistura’s efforts and its call for a political settlement to ensure stability in the region. Furthermore, the spokesperson raised concerns about the humanitarian and living conditions in the Tindouf camps in Algeria.
Mozambique, which abstained from the vote, acknowledged the importance of renewing MINURSO’s mandate but believed that expanding its powers to hold a referendum was necessary. They held the view that the current decision wouldn’t promote the political process.
The Russian representative abstained due to their observations not being considered by Washington. They stressed Moscow’s impartial stance on the Sahara issue and its support for a political solution, highlighting collaboration with Algeria, Morocco, and the Polisario organization.
China voiced its belief that MINURSO had advanced the political settlement and saw the current decision as supportive of this process. They also expressed a willingness to provide logistical support, reinforcing their commitment to the political settlement in accordance with international decisions.
France welcomed the decision to extend the MINURSO mission’s mandate, emphasizing the importance of ensuring its freedom of movement. France condemned ceasefire violations and reiterated support for the Moroccan autonomy plan.
Gabon’s representative affirmed support for a realistic and lasting solution, the resumption of negotiations between the parties, and backing for the Moroccan autonomy plan. They noted Morocco’s commitment to the ceasefire.
The United Arab Emirates praised the balanced nature of the resolution, holding all parties accountable for developments. They expressed support for the Moroccan autonomy plan as a realistic and serious solution and urged the Polisario to reciprocate and commit to a ceasefire. The UAE strongly supported Morocco’s sovereignty over its entire national territory.
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