A high-level Chinese military delegation arrived in Laayoune on Monday for a two day visit as part of a series of visits aimed at assessing the work of the MINURSO mission and addressing the challenges it faces in fulfilling its UN mandate, particularly following repeated ceasefire violations by the Polisario Front.
According to Hespress sources, the delegation, which includes four senior Chinese military officials, will hold a series of meetings with MINURSO leadership at the mission’s headquarters in Laayoune.
The delegation’s talks will begin with Alexander Ivanko, head of MINURSO and the UN Secretary-General’s representative in the Sahara, focusing on the mission’s responsibilities and activities. Side discussions will also take place with General General Mohamed Fakher Al Ihsan the mission’s military commander, to address peacekeeping challenges in the region.
The sources said the visit aims to deepen China’s understanding of the situation on the ground, helping to inform China’s positions within the UN Security Council and ensuring the success of MINURSO’s mission.
The visit also underscores major powers’ ongoing commitment to supporting UN peacekeeping efforts and reinforcing international peace and security.
The visit comes amid reports that China plans to open a consulate in Laayoune and express support for Morocco’s autonomy plan for the Sahara, and China’s broader goal of increasing its influence in Africa, with Morocco serving as a key partner due to its strategic position.
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