Mr OULD ERRACHID : " AUTONOMY IS A POLITICAL SOLUTION WHICHJ TAKES INTO ACCOUNT POSITIONS OF ALL PARTIES"

MR Ould Errachid: “Autonomy is a political solution which takes into account positions of all parties”


The Moroccan initiative for autonomy for the Sahara region is a consensual political solution which takes into consideration positions of all parties, after the apparent failure of previous attempts for a settlement of this conflict. These attempts which proved to be inapplicable, affirmed Mr Khalihenna ould Errachid chairman of the royal advisory council for Saharan affairs (CORCAS).

Mr Ould Errachid, who was Tuesday evening guest of the satellite channel “Al jazeera mobacher” underlined that this initiative offers realistic and applicable solutions which “satisfy all Sahraouis, including polisario which is part of the sahraoui populations, as to Algeria in consideration of its historical implication, its responsibility rests with this affair».

It is inscribed equally, he added “in harmony with the international community willingness to reach a mutually acceptable political solution by all parties in conformity with the resolution 1754”.

He made a remark that Morocco, is convinced that every party should renounce to some of its claims in order to find a way out of this deadlock, and therefore made “huge concessions opting for the autonomy initiative”
The chairman of CORCAS noted that the autonomy initiative will introduce enormous changes in the real-life of Sahraouis, to whom it will give several powers to run their own affairs (government, parliament, ..)

He also revealed that “the question of Sahara does not constitute at all a decolonization affair, but rather a political, problem which requires efforts from all parties concerned, to reach a final settlement” he made it clear that no document at the UN or at the Arab league, and for that matter at the organization of the Islamic conference, or the European union indicates that it is a matter of decolonization


Sources: the political site of Western Sahara: www.corcas.com
The Western Sahara portail: www.sahara-online.net
The site of the hassani culture : www.sahara-culture.com

Ban Ki Moon : the 2nd round concerning sahara allowed " good substance discussion"

Ban Ki Moon: the 2nd round of negotiations concerning Sahara allowed “good substance discussion”


The United Nations general secretary Mr Ban Ki Moon indicated Tuesday that the second round of negotiations concerning Sahara was an opportunity for parties concerned to lead “good substance discussions”.

“ Although there were no apparent progress during these negotiations, the two parties had good substance negotiations during the two days” of their meeting, last Friday and Saturday, at Manhasset, declared Mr Ban Ki-Moon during a press conference at the headquarter of the Un at New York.” What is important at this stage is that parties have agreed to continue their dialogue”.

“I will carry on encouraging parties concerned to pursue dialogue, and incite my personal envoy to continue helping out» he affirmed.

Delegations of Morocco, Polisario, Algeria, and Mauritania have participated in the 2nd round of the negotiations about Sahara. with the presence of the Un envoy Mr van Walsum.


Sources : www.corcas.com
www.sahara-online.net
www.sahara-culture.com
www.sahara-villes.com
www.sahara-developpement.com

Morocco confident and optimist , regrets the stiff position of the other party

Morocco confident and optimist, regrets the stiff position of the other party

Members of the Moroccan delegation to the second round of the Sahara negotiations which took place the 10th and11th of august at Manhasset, suburb of Newyork, expressed their optimism, and confidence in the on going process, regretting the stiff position of the other party.

During the two day talks at the Greentree residence, under the supervision of the UN discussions tackled the basic points concerning the Moroccan autonomy initiative, according to members of the Moroccan delegation, during a press conference in New York.“We consider the first round as a contact round, the second one dealt with the mechanism of putting into practise the 1754 resolution of the UN, in relation with the autonomy” underlined the interior minister Mr Chakib Benmoussa.Morocco agreed in principle to take part in the third round of negotiations, he said, as to the date and place remains to be decided “we are confident as to this process, and we hope that the next round will allow improving the Polisario’s position” he added.Concerning the role of neighbouring countries, the minister considered that Algeria and Mauritania could contribute to reach a settlement to this problem”.“We consider that the presence of neighbouring countries at these talks is important. Algeria is concerned by this dispute, because it shelters Tindouf refugee camps in its soil, and we know the extent of influence that this country practised on Polisario.Mauritania, for its part has got a big number of Sahraouis, which explains its link with this issue» he added.The Moroccan minister regretted that the high commission for refugees (HCR) was not able to take a census of the camps populations who live in deplorable conditions.

As to the chairman of the royal advisory council for Saharan affairs (CORCAS) Mr Khalihenna Ould Errachid, he reminded that the failure of a number plans in order to reach a solution led to an impasse and to appeals from the international community to the parties to formulate new proposals.” Morocco has taken the initiative to come up with a courageous and innovating plan whereby there will be no winner and no looser” indicated Mr Khalihenna Ould Errachid, deploring that polisario remains prisoner of a backward-looking vision based on obsolete and unrealizable projects. The other party did not understand the spirit of the1754 resolution of the UN, calling for a political solution based on the Moroccan proposal.In the same context Mr Taieb fassi Fihri underlined that the Security Council has clearly indicated that the responsibility of the settlement of this issue rests with the parties concerned and neighbouring countries, whereas the role of the UN is limited to facilitate the process of negotiations. The autonomy initiative proposed by Morocco was favourably welcomed by the international community which greeted the credible and serious efforts made by the Kingdom of Morocco, he added.

Going back to the progress of the negotiations Mr Fihri explained that in parallel to the the essence of discussions, the UN experts have presented reports concerning the main questions in relation with the autonomy within the framework of the Moroccan territorial integrity, such as management of natural resources, and local governance.In this respect the Moroccan delegation indicated that the second round was positive compared with the first round, hoping to see the polisario revising its position in view of the next round.

As to the managing director of “studies and documentation” Mr Mohamed Yassine Mansouri, he indicated that although the one-sided of the statements made by members the polisario to the press, throughout the two day negotiations period, these talks were positive”. as far as the Moroccan delegation is concerned this second round constitutes an important step, and a positive evolution, as it permitted to examine and discuss the fundamental points concerning the essence of the Moroccan initiative” explained Mr Mansouri who, added» Morocco is determined to go ahead with patience , because we would like to see this initiative of autonomy succeeded”

Source: MAP

-News and events concerning Western sahara-

THE INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION OF FORMER FIGHTERS DEFUSES THE HUMANITARIAN CRISIS OF THE MOROCCANS SEQUESTRATED IN TINDOUF

The international federation of former fighters defuses the humanitarian crisis of the Moroccans sequestrated in Tindouf

In its 13th meeting, taking place in Accra ( Ghana), during the period of 14 to 16 of July 2007 the standing committee on African affairs, of the international federation of former fighters approved the recommendation Submitted by the Moroccan high commission for former members of the resistance and the liberation army.

The standing committee on African Affairs:

1- Denounces the suffering endured by the Moroccan Sahraouis sequestrated in the Tindouf and considers this situation as being anachronistic and contrary to international legitimacy.

2- expresses preoccupation about the cruelty and violence inflicted upon those detainee Moroccans sequestrated.

3- Delighted at the positive development of the Sahara problem and at the Moroccan initiative calling for direct negotiations with the Polisario, in accordance with the terms of Security Council resolution n 1754.

4-requests the parties involved to bring an end to this dramatic situation



Source : Corcas
-News and events concerning Western Sahara issue-

THE SPANISH POPULAR PARTY AFFIRMS THAT SELF-DETERMINATION DOES NOT MEAN NECESSARILY INDEPENDENCE

The Spanish popular party affirms that self-determination does not mean necessarily independence


In an interview published Wednesday by the daily newspaper Asharq Al-awsat the spokesman of the foreign affairs commission of the Spanish popular party Mr Gustavo De Aristegui, expressed his optimism as to direct contacts between parties concerned, which constitutes, he underlined “an important step towards a solution of the problem, in order to put an end to several decade old Sahara conflict”

The solution of this problem is equal to the main “engines of stability of the Arab Maghreb region” he assured, considering that direct negotiations constitute “a huge step of a great importance”’Mentioning the Moroccan policy of the PP. Mr Aristegui underlined that his party places Morocco» among its priorities of its foreign policy”. “It is for this reason that we grant the importance to its stability and the positive economic and political developments “he added.

He affirmed that the the PP is “ from now on convinced that morocco represents an important priority for Spain from the historical, geo-political, geo-strategic , and economic points of view”

“our hopes for Morocco are positive, what happened in the past is not a result to the conflict or to the confrontation, but a simple misunderstanding, taking into account that the communication between us was not at its best, he underlined, promising that relations between Madrid and Rabat» will not suffer when the party goes back to the power; and that the party “will not spare any efforts to improve its relations to the best level”

The responsible of the foreign relations of the PP announced to be “firmly convinced to the necessity of following the building of a bilateral interest’s network between Morocco and Spain in the economic, trade, political, and cultural fields, in addition to the fight against terrorism”

For Mr Gustavo de Aristegui “the only way to handle relations with Morocco, is to consider this relation a matter of state, and to avoid home political debates”

Mr Aristegui made it clear of the necessity to give Morocco, priority in the program concerning visits of the PP leaders, reminding that a visit to Rabat is in the engagement book of the leader of the party Mariono Rajoy.

Source: MAP
-Events concerning the Western Sahara issue-

THE REGION OF LAAYOUNE-BOUJDOUR-SAKIA-ELHAMRA CELEBRATES WITH PRIDE AN?D MOBILIZATION THE THRONE FESTIVITY

The region of Laayoune-Boujdour-Sakia-Elhamra celebrates with pride and mobilization the throne festivity


The inhabitants of the region of laayoune-Boujdour-Sakia-El hamra celebrated last Monday in an atmosphere of pride the 8th anniversary of the enthroning of his majesty the king Mohammed VI, , an opportunity to reiterate their affection to the noble person of the sovereign, in addition to Their constant mobilization behind the glorious Alaouite throne.

During the ceremony organized in the “palais des congres” at Laayoune with the presence of the governor of the region Mr M’hamed Dreyf, local civil and military authorities, and several elected and other personalities.

The audience followed the throne speech, during this ceremony, prices were given to the winners of the championship of “Laayoune-foot” .

At Boujdour the celebration of the throne festivity was marqued by a ceremony of raising the national flag, organized at the square of the prefecture, with the presence of the governor of Boujdour province Mr Mohamed Najem Bhai.

Besides a reception organized at the provincial council, which includes reading of poems, and hassani songs, the official festivities taken place at the hall of meetings of the prefecture of Boujdour have been marked by several speeches underlying the profound feelings of loyalty, and fidelity of the entire inhabitants of the southern provinces to his majesty the King Mohammed VI, and their attachment to the glorious Alaouite throne and their constant mobilization behind the sovereign


Source: MAP

WHAT FUTURE FOR THE POLISARIO

WHAT FUTURE FOR THE POLISARIO



BY: MOULAY AHMED MAOULAININ


Since 1976 the secretary general of the Polisario Mohammed Abdelaziz, and a small group of Other Leaders control the Tindouf refugee camps. Today Algeria remains the main Financial, political, and military supporter of the Polisario, though Libya and countries of the Former Soviet Union .historically backed the polisario in the past, their support has decreased Since the end of the cold war. The polisario is the product of another era prior the Collapse of the totalitarian System, although the world started to experience changes (as from The Last decade of the last Century) Polisario remained apart from such changes in the International political behaviour, No free elections, no democraty, no plurality, no freedom of Speech and expression, no free opinion and most definitely no civil society.

It is not a secret that polisario,was established by a group of young Moroccan sahraouis students, who had felt the necessity to liberate western Sahara from the Spaniards, during their several attempts to convince the then government in charge, and also the Moroccan national political parties to the urgency of claiming the territory back to the kingdom of Morocco, the answer, or rather the reaction from both sides was very disappointing, as far as the young sahraouis were concerned, which led them to opt for the creation of Polisario.

The aim was at the very beginning to start a struggle against the Spanish colonizer, the idea of disintegrating from the kingdom was not in the mind of the young sahraouis, simply because they are Moroccans as much as their parents, and ancestors. During 1975 Algeria became directly involved with the Polisario in addition to other Arab countries namely Libya, South of Yemen. And a number of the ex eastern bloc, among others the Soviet Union, and Cuba. In this particular time, and thinks to the unexpected international support to the polisario front, and the direct involvement of Algeria. It was the leadership of the polisario that planed during the same year the emigration of a number of sahraouis from their homes in the Sahara to Tindouf refugee camps. In fact the present refugees in the camps inside Algeria were victims of systematic lies and manoeuvres of the Polisario.

many observers see the shift of Polisario attitude towards the Kingdom of Morocco, being their own country, and the claim for a referendum leading to an independent state in western Sahara as a result of the inter –Arab differences. Allowing the sahraoui people to vote on a referendum seems like a simple solution, but the polisario had insisted on restricting the voter lists locked that process into more than six years of fruitless discussion. The UN became aware of the fact that referendum is in practical terms impossible to carry out since sahraouis do not live only in Morocco, but also in Algeria, Mauritania, and Mali. This means simply that there should be a change of these countries borders, in order to organize a just and fair referendum, since the countries concerned would totally reject the idea, the former general secretary of the UN confirmed that the organization of such referendum is impossible politically and technically. Recognizing this deadlock, the UN shifted its approach to encouraging direct political negotiations between Morocco and the polisario.One of the totalitarian stigmata that continue to weigh against polisario is its capacity to take part in the search for a political solution. The real desire for a dialogue even with the majority of sahraouis who have opted to remain in the territory in Morocco, and who are members of the CORCAS is absent (http://www.sahara-online.net )

THE DIVERSION OF HUMANITARIAN AID

Sahraoui refugees in the Tindouf camps depend on humanitarian aid donated by numerousUN organizations, in addition to international non-governmental organizations. It is believed And even proved that much of the humanitarian aid does not reach the refugees, instead it is in most cases sold on the black market in neighbouring countries by the Polisario. In this Respect the international community have called in numerous occasions for the Implementation of a census, and an audit system to make sure that the management of the Humanitarian aid is transparent. Both Algeria, and Polisario has refused to allow independent Oversight of its management of humanitarian assistance. Important quantities of diverted International humanitarian aid sent for refugees in Tindouf camps have been found on the Markets in Algeria, and Mauritania, but also in Mali and Nigers, some still in their original Packaging. The sums recovered would be used to finance the front, and also its leader’s way Of life, at the expense of sahraoui refugees. These diversions according to the report of the US Committee for refugees published in year 2000 “Humanitarian workers have reported that more than 30% of the children from 5 to 12 years old were underfed, more than 70% of the Children of less than 5 years old suffered from anaemia”, in its 2001 report the committee Announced “more than 15000 children are in need of shoes”, and finally in its 2003 report, its said “some donors in private, have asked for a control of the distribution of food to Make sure that the political and military leaders were not diverting the aid”

HUMAN RIGHTS ASPECT AND ITS CONSEQUENCES

The polisario is severely accused of human rights abuses : the detention, killing ,and the abuse treatment of Moroccan prisoners of war from late 70’s to 2006, other accusations are that a big number of sahraouis are kept in the Tindouf camps against their will, and do not enjoy freedom of expression. In a report published in 2003; Amnesty International concluded that “freedom of expression, association, and movement continued to be restricted in the camps controlled by the polisario near Tindouf in south western Algeria».
In 2006 a full and comprehensive report of an independent committee of inquiry into allegations of violation human rights, crimes ,abuses ,and various other irregularities brought against the polisario front, was submitted to the special political and decolonisation committee (fourth committee) of the United Nations on the 4th of October 2006.This 40page documented report deals the following aspects:• The condition of detention, the use of torture, the absence of even the minimum level of judicial process, malnutrition of prisoners, and the absence of medical care.• Forced labour ,and rape ,and The abdication of Moroccan citizens within the international recognized frontiers of Morocco

The existence of the Polisario is connected to the existence of these camps, and the existence of such refugee camps on a hostile territory in subhuman conditions over a long period is a flagrant infringement of human rights. The Polisario has constantly violated the most elementary human rights for the last 30 years. The polisario can not be the sole and legitimate representative of sahraouis, especially if we take into account that two thirds of sahraouis do live under Moroccan sovereignty and they support the substantial autonomy project(http://www.sahara-online.net ) At the same time, most of those living as refugees in Tindouf camps in Algeria back the autonomy seeing it as a solution that guarantees political, economic, and social rights of sahraouis.


CONFLICTS WITHIN POLISARIO

Recent conflicts between different factions within Polisario and that many leaders are now returning to Morocco others would if they had the chance .The internal conflict is more serious than differences over “tactics” in any case after 3 decades of isolation in a harsh environment,youngstars who have never seen their homeland, and senior officials alike rail in frustration. The Khat Achahid (line of the martyr) is a faction within the Polisario, the organization announced its existence in 2004,it accuses the polisario leadership of being undemocratic, not caring enough for the refugees, and also accusing Mohamed abdelaziz of corruption,clientism,tribalism,and for bargaining with the sufferings of the sahraoui people; having no strategy to face the international developments, and for refusing to hold the national congress required by KHAt- AL CHAHID ( see Wikipedia, the free encyclopaedia)

In the absence of any real desire for dialogue with Morocco, a return to armed confrontation with Morocco is unlikely to happen, first of all polisario is not in a position to fight against the Moroccan army, and secondly although Algeria supports, and in so many respects controls polisario, it is almost certain that it would ever permit a resumption of hostilities from its soil.

The question remains: to what extent polisario is in the service of Algerian politics? And what would be the future of polisario, as it is almost certain that it has no chance to win the ongoing diplomatic battle, nor any other battle for that matter











…

MOROCCO IN MORE COMFORTABLE SITUATION WITH AUTONOMY PROJECT

Morocco in more comfortable situation with autonomy project

7/20/2007

Morocco is in a "more comfortable" position with its initiative to grant substantial autonomy to its southern provinces, The Sahara, said, here Thursday, Moroccan deputy Foreign Minister Taieb Fassi Fihri.

Speaking at a meeting with national media outlets, Mr. Fassi Fihri noted that "the other parties are now under pressure", stressing the Kingdom's efforts to reach a "consensual and mutually acceptable" solution to the Sahara issue, opposing the north African country to Polisario separatists.

The Sahara dispute broke out in 1976 when the Polisario, backed by Morocco's eastern neighbor, Algeria, started laying claims to the territory, a former Spanish colony that was ceded to the North African country in 1975 under the Madrid Accord. The Polisario continues to hold thousands of Moroccans against their will in the Tindouf camps (south western Algeria).

Recalling that Morocco's autonomy initiative was a break with the past, he noted that it was devised in response to the calls of the international community and the United Nations security Council’s resolution that called on the parties to the dispute to get out of the impasse and enter into negotiations "in good faith and without preconditions.”

Echoing him, Moroccan Interior Minister, Chakib Benmoussa, stressed that Morocco would take part in the second round of negotiations on Sahara, due in Manhasset (New York outskirts) on August 10, “in a climate of trust, confidence and openness.”

Morocco “is firmly convinced of the justness and the credibility of its cause”, he went on, adding that the initiative is likely to signal a new page in the history of the Great Maghreb, based on cooperation and solidarity, so that the region’s countries (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Mauritania and Libya) can face up to challenges, face threats lurking around Maghreban people and establish safety and stability in this area, which is targeted by dangers and covetousness.

In accordance with the UNSG resolution 1754 (of April 30) that called upon the parties to the dispute to enter into negotiations "in good faith and without preconditions," Morocco and the Polisario held the first round of UN-sponsored negotiations on the Sahara in Manhasset. The parties have agreed to resume talks in the same venue in the second week of August.

The United Nations Security Council, which convened on July 12 in a closed-door session to discuss the UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-Moon’s report on the status and progress of the negotiations on Sahara, voiced hope that the parties will use the next round of negotiations to engage "in good faith in substantial negotiations."


Source ( CORCAS )

TCHAD DENIES CATEGORICALLY RESTORATION OF ANY DIPLOMATIC TIES WITH THE SO-CALLED "RASD"

TCHAD denies categorically restoration of any
Diplomatic ties with the so-called “RASD”



Tchad denies categorically any information concerning the restoration of diplomatic ties between the Republic of Tchad and pseudo”RASD .

In a statement published in its web site, Tchad underlines that information brought in this respect by a local newspaper is “ without any basis, and riddled with lies” the statement added that “no agreement to restore diplomatic ties between Tchad and “RASD”was signed” in this respect.

“Consequently, we require from the national and international opinion public not to be abused by this kind of abject and insane handling» concluded the statement.

The embassy of the republic of Tchad in Algiers, denies equally, in a statement published on Sunday by the Algerian newspaper “liberte” information brought by this newspaper claiming that Tchad had restored diplomatic ties with the so-called “RASD”.

Source (MAP)
See : http://www.primature-tchad.org

SWISSERLAND IN FAVOUR OF A SOLUTION THAT SATISFIES ALL PARTIES CONCERNED

SWISSERLAND IS IN FAVOR OF A SOLUTION THAT
SATISFIES ALL PARTIES CONCERNED



13 /07/2007


In a friendly and constructive atmosphere the Swiss delegation led by Mrs Christine Egerszegi-obrist leader of the Swiss national council (federal parliament) met at the headquarter of the CORCAS in Rabat, on Wednesday 11th of July the chairman of the royal advisory council for Saharan affairs (CORCAS) Mr Khalihenna Ould Errachid.

This meeting was an opportunity to present to Mrs Egerszegi-Obrist and the members of the Swiss delegation an historic outline concerning the Sahara issues, and a general idea of the Moroccan initiative for negotiating an autonomy statute for the Saharan region.

Mr Khelihenna Ould Errachid explained equally to the Swiss delegation the attributions of the CORCAS and its contribution to the development of southern provinces, in addition to the elaboration of the Moroccan proposal.

Mr Khelihenna Ould Errachid pointed out the main and important achievements in the southern provinces of the kingdom of Morocco, and freedom and peace spread out all over the region.

This meeting took place with the presence particularly of the Swiss ambassador in Morocco Mr Christian Dunant, and also the general secretary of the CORCAS Mr Maouelainin Ben Khalihanna Maouelainin.

Mrs Egerszgi-Obrist expressed, at the end of the meeting, her satisfaction as to the way Morocco is tackling the Sahara issue, and made it clear that her country is advocating a solution to Sahara question which is acceptable by all parties.

SOURCE( CORCAS)

AN IMPORTANT PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION FROM THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO VISITS CORCAS

An important Parliamentary delegation from The Democratic republic of CONGO visits CORCAS



12/07/2007


An important delegation of members of Parliament from the Democratic republic of CONGO led by the leader of the national assembly Mr Vital Karmerhe, was received by the chairman Khellihenna Ould Errachid at the headquarter of the Royal Advisory Council For Saharan Affairs ( CORCAS) , in RABAT, on Tuesday 10th of June.

It is notable that Mr KARMERHE is leading a delegation of MP’s, which includes Mr Katende wandaye reporter of the national assembly of Congo, Mayo Maybeke cabinet director and deputy leader of the national assembly, in addition the following MP’s: Giala Mobuto, Boji Sangara Aime, and Bussa Tongba Jean-lucien.
During the meeting the chairman of CORCAS explained the historical background of the dispute over Western Sahara, the vital role of the CORCAS in terms of direct negotiations between the kingdom of Morocco , and the Polisario front, and the importance of the Moroccan substantial autonomy proposal, as a basis for any fair and just political settlement to the over three decade western Sahara conflict.

At the end of this fruitful meeting MR Vital Karmerhe confirmed his country’s full support to the Moroccan national territory integrity, and expressed his approval to the Moroccan proposal submitted to the UN Security Council. He added “we have always confirmed that the the Moroccan territorial integrity should be safeguarded, it is in the interest of the entire Moroccan population that unity is safeguarded”


SOURCE ( CORCAS)

President Sarkozy :sahara is not a matter of discord between algeria and France

President SARKOZY: Sahara is not a matter
Of discord between Algeria and France



11/7/2007


The French president NICOLAS SARCOZYdeclared on Tuesday 10th of July 2007 in Algiers that “the question of Sahara should not be a matter of discord between Algeria and France”
“Frankly I have enough problems to sort out, I acknowledge the complexity of the question, and the UN has voted for a resolution qualified, even by president Bouteflika, interesting” he said in a press conference at the end of his talks, followed by a lunch with the Algerian president
“President Bouteflika told me that he knew the French traditional position, and he did not ask me to renounce such a position, he explained, according to his own arguments, that I respect the Algerian position. As to me i have not mentioned any matter of discord between France and Algeria” he added.
According to Mr SARKOZY “what is important, that things should progress, and sometime the MAGHREB union could be done on the basis of entente, between Algeria and Morocco, as we can not imagine the Maghreb without Morocco and Algeria

source (MAP)

A GERMAN DELEGATION VISITS CORCAS

A GERMAN DELEGATION VISITS CORCAS


10/7/2007


Mr khalihenna Ould Errachid , chairman of the royal advisory council for Saharan affairs received yesterday morning at the headquarter of the council a German delegation which include seven members ,friends of Morocco , led by senator Dr Michael Freytag, in company of Mr Jurgen Klimke, the local finance minister of Hamburg.
During the meeting, Mr Khalihenna Ould Errachid explained to the German delegation the evolution of the Sahara question, including the content of the Moroccan substantial autonomy initiative for the region of Sahara, in addition to the direct negotiations between Morocco and the Polisario front which took place in Manhasset near New York city on the 18th and 19th of June under the auspices of the United Nations. The CORCAS chairman reminded the German delegation of the main historical phases of the Sahara conflict.
Members of the German delegation have asked several questions about the nature of the conflict, and also about efforts made by Morocco with the aim of reaching a fair and final settlement to the conflict that lasted over three decades.
The German delegation showed a great interest in the Moroccan proposal, and expressed their support to efforts made to achieve political solution to the dispute over Sahara.
It is notable that Dr Maouelainin the secretary general of the council, as well as a number of CORCAS members took part in yesterday’s meeting


Source(CORCAS)

THE PRESIDENT OF CORCAS MEETS THE VICE PRESIDENT OF THE MEXICAN SENATE

The president of CORCAS meets the vice president of the Mexican Senate


9/7/2007


The president of the royal advisory council for Saharan affairs (CORCAS) Mr Khalihenna Ould Errachid had talks last week in Rabat, with the vice president of the Mexican senate Mr Francisco Augustan Arroyo Vieyra, about the latest events concerning the Western Sahara issue. Particularly after the first round of negotiations which took place at Manhasset near New York City on the 18th and 19th of last monthMore……
In a statement to the media the Mexican senate vice president indicated that his country wishes the success of such negociatons, and that parties concerned will reach a final settlement to the Sahara issue in order to achieve peace, and consolidate stability in the region.
The Mexican delegation, led by the senate vice president Mr Francisco Augustan Arroyo Vieyra is formed of Mr Salomon Jara Cuy president of the foreign affairs commission for Africa, and Jose Julian Sacramento Garza secretary of the same commission
During the three day visit to Morocco the Mexican delegation met last Thursday the Moroccan minister of cooperation and foreign affairs Mr Mohammed Benaissa.The president of the Mexican delegation has expressed his appreciation to the overall efforts made by Morocco to reach a final solution to the Sahara question, under the auspices of the United Nations , he even showed his admiration to the achievement accomplished in The Kingdom in various fields during the last decade or so.
IT is worth mentioning that the CORCAS diplomatic activities aiming at explaining the real aspects of the western Sahara dispute between the Kingdom of Morocco and the Polisario front, and the substantial autonomy project put forward by Morocco as basis for any negotiations leading to a fair, just, and final settlement to the over three decade dispute over western Sahara, these activities have increased particularly after the adoption of resolution 1754 by the UN security council.
The CORCAS representation in the Moroccan delegation to the first round negotiations in Manhasset reflects the vital role that CORCAS was and still is playing since its creation by his Majesty King Mohammed VI.

SOURCE (CORCAS)

MOROCCAN PROPOSAL FOR A SUBSTANTIAL AUTONOMY

MOROCCAN PROPOSAL FOR A SUBSTANTIAL AUTONOMY


TAOUFIQ GAZOULIT, MA
JOURNALIST/RESEARCHER

6/7/2007

On Wednesday, April 11, 2007 the Moroccan government submitted its proposal for a substantial autonomy for the Western Sahara region to the newly nominated secretary general of the United Nations organization, taking the first step, which the international community has called for repeatedly, toward a political direct dialogue with the parties concerned ie Algeria and the Polisario front.The conflict between the Kingdom of Morocco, and the Algerian-backed polisario front, dates back more than three decades. From 1975 until a UN-brokered cease-fire agreement in 1991.The terms of 1991 cease-fire agreement were not fully met until august 2005, when the polisario, under pressure from the international community released the over 400Moroccan prisoners of war. During their very long capture the Moroccan POW faced barbaric torture, and forced labour from both: the Algerian and polisario military intelligence services. On april2003, the France libertés foundation led an international mission of inquiry on the conditions of detention of Moroccan POW long held in the refugee camps in Algeria, the French foundation produced detailed accusations of torture, forced labour, arbitary detentions, and summary executions of captured soldiers, that revealed the true nature of the polisario front, which had long portrayed itself as victim.Allowing the sahraoui people to vote on a referendum seems like a simple solution, but the polisario had insisted on restricting the voter lists locked that process into more than six years of fruitless discussion. The UN became aware of the fact that referendum is in practical terms impossible to carry out since sahraouis do not live only in Morocco, but also in Algeria, Mauritania, and Mali. This means simply that there should be a change of these countries borders, in order to organize a just and fair referendum, since the countries concerned would totally reject the idea, the general secretary of the UN confirmed that the organization of such referendum is impossible politically and technically.Recognizing this deadlock, the UN shifted its approach to encouraging direct negotiations between Morocco and the polisario.The Moroccan Proposal for substantial Autonomy is the first, and the only practical proposed framework for a political solution, and from it the two sides can craft a final agreement. IT preserves Moroccan sovereignty, but gives the Western Sahara sufficient autonomy to become effectively self-governing. The autonomous region would have:
1. regional parliament and president of a local government2. right to create local laws, as long as they do not contradict Morocco’s constitution3. regional judiciary to rule regarding local laws4. control of local police, schools, economy, infrastructure, taxation and housing5. Moroccan national emblems, including Moroccan flag, currency, stamps and national anthem
The Kingdom of Morocco would control:
1. external defence and national security2. foreign relations3. national judiciary4. religious affairs, with King Mohamed 6 as the highest religious authority
The Moroccan Substantial autonomy Plan should be seen by parties concerned as an initiative that achieves the principal of self-determination, through a free, modern and democratic expression regarding the autonomy statute .It is in no doubt in conformity with international legality as well as with international norms, and standards applicable in area of autonomy.Despite the refusal of the polisario front of the Moroccan Autonomy Plan (and for that matter Algeria) the polisario could still come to reason .It is of no use to be stubborn and remain in error.Today Morocco enables the polisario to open the road to hope, to make people forget the suffering, the errors and moral failures of the past.Today a golden opportunity is offered to the Polisario to accept the only solution possible, indeed the best one is a Substantial Autonomy under the Moroccan Sovereignty.
The Moroccan plan’s language was purposefully broad to allow for open debate, Morocco remains open to this solution that preserves its sovereignty, and territorial integrity, and that allows populations to manage directly, and democratically their local affairs .Morocco is ready to cooperate with other parties, as well as with the general secretary, and his special representative to reach a solution that is accepted by all parties.To this aim, Morocco is ready to engage in a constructive negotiation to contribute concretely to its success. In the pursuit of this objective the kingdom of Morocco hopes to rely on the good will of all those who are committed to create favourable conditions for a realistic and consensus –based solution of the western Sahara conflict, a solution that enables the populations in the refugee camps inside Algeria to finally join their families and that allow Maghreb states to find unity and solidarity
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the Moroccan substantial autonomy proposal should be the basis of any direct negociations concerning west sahara

- THE MOROCCAN SUBSTANTIAL AUTONOMY PROPOSAL SHOULD BE THE BASIS OF ANY DIRECT NEGOCIATIONS CONCERNING WESTERN SAHARA


BY: MOULAY AHMED MAOUELAININ *


IT is notable that the world political landscape knows a number of disputes, and conflicts that are threatening directly, or indirectly peace, and stability around the world. In fact some of these conflicts deserve the international community full attention in order to solve them, having said that others are simply unfounded, but unfortunately continue to exist for some reasons or others, draining out financial resources, as well as putting tremendous pressure on the international community. As to the Western Sahara conflict, it is in my view a result of regional politics in the North African area, during the seventies, and particularly between the two most powerful countries in the region i.e. : Morocco and Algeria. Vital economic and strategic interests where undoubtedly behind the three decade crisis over Western Sahara.
IT is known to everybody that historically speaking Western Sahara was always an integral part of the kingdom of Morocco, until 1884 when the Spanish started invading the area, by 1912 Morocco was colonized by two major European powers: France and Spain. The process of decolonization of Moroccan territories which were occupied by Spain took place through negotiations. In this respect, Morocco regained the north zone in April 1956, Tarfaya and Tan Tan in 1958, Sidi ifni in1969, and the Sahara in 1975.
The Moroccan proposal for a substantial autonomy transfers competences and creates local institutions (legislative and executive) within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty .again autonomy is seen by experts in international law as a very advanced form of self determination. This plan was prepared mainly by the Royal Advisory Council for Sahara Affairs, under a direct supervision of the King Mohamed VI (see http://www.corcas.com) and it has been subject to large consultations with the sahraoui populations and Moroccan political parties.
As to The Polisario, it is definitely not the sole and legitimate representative of the sahraoui, because the overwhelming majority of sahraoui opted to remain Moroccans and they are represented in the CORCAS which was established by the King Mohamed VI. Sahraouis back the process of autonomy under the Moroccan sovereignty. They are proud to belong to the Moroccan nation. Throughout the history not even one sahraoui opted for the separatism, not even the parents and families of the present polisario leadership. It is obvious that Morocco seeks a final settlement to this dispute, which is in a way a result of the cold war and the inter- Arab differences, this conflict did not help to effectively build the Maghreb Union. The dispute over Western Sahara did not help either the promotion of democracy in the region nor making use of natural resources for the people of the region. The aim behind the Moroccan proposal is that Sahraouis claims will be satisfied, and Morocco remains sovereign over its southern territories. It is crystal clear that the international community is welcoming Moroccan autonomy project .it is seen as a constructive and just proposal for all parties, this viewpoint was felt by the members of Moroccan delegations all over the world capitals ,and ,indeed in the UN headquarters ,during the discussions led by members of the security council.
Generally speaking the parliament of the Sahara will be formed by members elected by sahraoui tribes, and by members elected by direct universal suffrage by sahraouis .as to the executive authority in the Sahara autonomous region will lie with a head of government, to be elected by the regional parliament. It will have the financial resources required for its development in areas such as: economic sector, region’s local administration, police forces and jurisdictions, infrastructure, the social sector, cultural affairs and environment. The Moroccan substantial proposal requires an amendment of the Moroccan constitution, in order to incorporate the autonomy statute into it. The kingdom of Morocco will keep its powers in terms of defence, foreign affairs and international relations, and the country’s judicial order. In addition to the constitutional and the religious prerogatives of the King.
The secretary general personal envoy for Sahara Van Walsum stated ( in his press conference at the headquarter of the UN , after presenting his report to the UN chief) that the Moroccan proposal to grant substantial autonomy to the western Sahara “was the result of an extended political process of national and international consultations” whereas the polisario proposal, the UN envoy added “it is consistent with polisario well known positions” .As far as the role of Algeria in the conflict Mr Walsum recognized the pre-eminent role of Algeria, “Algeria has in this whole dossier (Sahara issue) played an absolutely pre-eminent ,dominant role ever since1975” this is the first time that a senior UN official dealing directly with the western Sahara issue that recognized in a diplomatic Worthing to what extent the Algerians are directly involved in the western Sahara dispute ,and even in the decision making on behalf of the separatist movement called polisario while Algiers keeps insisting that “it is not a part in the conflict”.
It was certain that the Security Council would go along with the newly nominated general, secretary of the UN Ban ki-moon’s recommendation, a move that would step up pressure for a political negotiated solution. IN his report to the Security Council Ban Ki-moon reiterated his call to the parties, including Algeria to accept the principle of direct negotiations, without any preconditions in order to reach a settlement to the three decade old Sahara conflict, he also quoted his personal envoy’s analysis saying that “the security council had consistently made it clear that it would not impose a solution to the question of western Sahara, which had led him to the conclusion that there were only two options: either indefinite prolongation of the impasse, or negotiations without preconditions between the parties aimed at achieving a mutually acceptable political solution . In fact members of the UN security council are explicitly asking Algeria to take part in any form of direct dialogue with Morocco searching for a final settlement to this conflict .it seems to me that the international community is “fed up” with the Algerian double standard policy towards the western Sahara issue…sometimes it presents itself as a concerned party, other times as an important actor, or as a party in the settlement of the dispute. If Algeria is willing ,as it claims ,to help sahraoui refugees in its own territory in Tindouf, then it has to lift the military and security blockade imposed around the camps, it would then find out that Sahraoui refugees will automatically exert the self –determination by walking from the camps and returning to their homeland in Morocco. Algeria should abandon its old dreams, and stop its non- stop allegations which are in so many respects unconvincing at all, in order to pave the way, and help to create a healthy atmosphere towards a settlement to the Western Sahara issue.
On Monday,april30,2007 the UN security council “ calls upon the parties to enter into negotiations without preconditions in good faith, taking into account the developments of the last months, with a view to achieving a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution”Not only the security council called for direct negotiations, but took note of the Moroccan proposal presented by Morocco to the UN general secretary “ welcome credible and serious Moroccan efforts to move the process forward towards resolution” this is in my view an explicit recognition that the Moroccan proposal is the only and unique one to be taken into consideration as a basis for any direct negotiations ,whereas the Polisario proposal did not bring any new elements nor practical alternative to the present deadlock
My view is that Algeria and the polisario would continue to create obstacles to the peace process advocated by the UN Security Council, although the polisario agreed to enter direct negotiations with Morocco, and Algeria welcomed the Security Council resolution
The Moroccan position is unequivocal; the Western Sahara is an integral part of the Kingdom of Morocco, whether Algeria and polisario come to term with the UN Security Council resolution or not.

KENYA REAFFIRMS FREEZIN?G RECOGNITION OF SO6CALLED SADR

Kenya reaffirms freezing recognition of so-called SADR
6/27/2007
The State of Kenya reaffirmed, on Tuesday, its decision to freeze recognition of the so-called Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), proclaimed by the Algeria-backed Polisario separatists in the Moroccan Southern Provinces, the Sahara.
This came in a joint press release, following the working visit of Moroccan Foreign Minister, Mohammed Benaissa to Kenya.
The document said Kenya welcomed favorably the Moroccan initiative for the negotiation of an autonomy statute in the Sahara that aims to find a solution to the dispute over the control of the Sahara, which broke out in 1976 between Morocco and the Polisario.
The release hailed the direct talks between the parties concerned that took place last week in Manhasset (New York outskirts) under the auspices of the United Nations.
Kenyan Foreign Minister, Raphael Tuju, voiced hope that a solution would be found to this issue, the document went on to say, recalling that Morocco has decided to restore diplomatic relations with Kenya at the level of ambassadors.
The two countries also agreed to establish a Joint Ministerial Commission to promote bilateral cooperation and exchange between the Kenyan Institute of Foreign affairs and the Moroccan Royal Academy of diplomacy.
Following a meeting with the Moroccan official, Mr. Tuju told MAP, earlier in the day, that ''Kenya decided to freeze its recognition of the SADR as a sign of commitment and friendship towards Morocco.”
The so-called SADR was only proclaimed in 1976, when Polisario separatists laid claims The Sahara, a former Spanish colony retrieved by the North African kingdom in 1975 under the Madrid Accord.
Kenya had suspended, in October 2006, its one-year old diplomatic relations with the so-called SADR. © Copyright CORCAS - 2006 -

UN-talks on sahara to resume in august

UN-led talks on Sahara to resume in august
6/20/2007
The first round of talks on Sahara between Morocco and the Algerian-backed separatist movement "Polisario" concluded, here Tuesday, with the parties promising to resume the negotiations again in August.
In a communiqué issued Tuesday after the talks, United Nations Secretary general's Personal Envoy for the Sahara, Peter van Walsum said the parties had agreed to continue their negotiations in Manhasset in the second week of August.
Earlier, U.N Secretary General's Spokesperson Michèle Montas described as "very difficult" these talks held June 18-19, at the Manhasset Greentree Estate, an exclusive venue on the outskirts of New York City, used by the United Nations Secretary General and various UN agency heads for retreats and high-level meetings.
"At this stage, it is the beginning of long process. It's not going to be an easy process (and) at this point we don’t know what part of the process will be reflected in the Secretary General’s report to the security council,” scheduled for June 30, she said. “We are now talking about very difficult negotiations and as I say the beginning of the process.”
These talks were carried out under U.N. auspices, and facilitated by the Mr. Walsum. They were also attended by representatives form neighboring Algeria and Mauritania who were “consulted separately.”
Monday’s opening session was attended by Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs B. Lynn Pascoe who said that the talks marked the beginning of a new phase in the search for a solution on Sahara. He urged the parties to proceed in good faith and to establish an atmosphere of mutual trust, and expressed the firm commitment of the United Nations to assist in the negotiations. The U.N. official also stressed that the stalemate is becoming intolerable and that the dispute over Western Sahara must be brought to a conclusion through a mutually agreed solution.
“The time has come for a solution. We wish you the best of luck, and reiterate our commitment to assist this process in every way possible," Pascoe told the meeting.
The first round of these talks were held in accordance with Security Council resolution 1754 which called on parties to enter into negotiation “without preconditions and in good faith.”
The Moroccan delegation to these talks was led by Minister for the Interior Chakib Benmoussa who underlined the need to reach a political solution to the 32-year old dispute over the former Spanish colony that was ceded by Spain to the North African country by virtue of the 1975 Madrid Accords. He made it clear that the Moment of truth has come for both parties to tackle the issue with “good faith”.
“The moment of truth has come. There can be no more hesitation, prevarication, obduracy, manoeuvring or tendentious interpretations.”, said Chakib Benmoussa.
The Moroccan delegation included Deputy Foreign Minister, Taieb Fassi Fihri, Deputy Interior Minister, Fouad Ali Al Himma, chairman of the Royal Council for Saharan Affairs (CORCAS), Khalihenna Ould Errachid, head of Morocco’s Intelligence (DGED), Mohamed Yassine Mansouri, and Morocco’s ambassador to the U.N. El Mostafa Sahel). © Copyright CORCAS - 2006 -

King chairs working session with negotiating delegation on Sahara

6/27/2007

King Mohammed VI chaired on Monday in the Atlantic city of Agadir a working session with the delegation that participated in the first round of negotiations on the Moroccan Sahara with the Algeria-backed Polisario separatists, which took place last week in Manhasset, New York outskirts.
A press release of the Office of the King said the monarch gave his instructions for the preparation of the second round of talks scheduled for the second week of August in the same venue.
The UN-led talks that took place on June 18-19 were held in implementation of the U.N. Security Council resolution 1754, which called on the parties involved in the Sahara issue to launch direct negotiations with a view to finding a solution to the three-decade old dispute over the Sahara, Morocco's Southern Provinces.
At the end of the two-day talks, Morocco and the Polisario front agreed to meet early August, which UN Secretary General spokesperson, Michèle Montas described as a "main success." The negotiations were also attended by neighboring Algeria and Mauritania.
The monarch ordered Prime Minister, Driss Jettou, Interior Minister, Chakib Benmoussa, and Deputy Foreign Minister, Taieb Fassi Fihri (both having been members of the negotiating delegation) to enlighten the public opinion about the talks during the upcoming weekly cabinet meeting and before the Parliament.
The sovereign also charged chairman of the Royal Advisory Council for Saharan Affairs (CORCAS), Khalihenna Ould Errachid to hold an extraordinary session of the Council on Friday in the southern city of Laayoune.
The meeting was attended by member of the Royal Office, Mohamed Rochdi Chraibi, and the members of the negotiating delegation, namely Interior Minister, Chakib Benmoussa, Deputy Foreign Minister, Taieb Fassi Fihri, Deputy Interior Minister, Fouad Ali Al Himma, chairman of the Royal Council for Saharan Affairs (CORCAS), Khalihenna Ould Errachid, head of Morocco's Intelligence (DGED), Mohamed Yassine Mansouri, and Morocco’s ambassador to the U.N. El Mostafa Sahel.
© Copyright CORCAS - 2006 -

A COMMUNIQUE ISSUED AFTER THE FIRST ROUND OF NEGOTIATIONS BETWEEN MOROCCO AND POLISARIO

In a communiqué issued Tuesday after the talks, United Nations Secretary general's Personal Envoy for the Sahara, Peter van Walsum said the parties had agreed to continue their negotiations in Manhasset in the second week of August.
Earlier, U.N Secretary General's Spokesperson Michèle Montas described as "very difficult" these talks held June 18-19, at the Manhasset Greentree Estate, an exclusive venue on the outskirts of New York City, used by the United Nations Secretary General and various UN agency heads for retreats and high-level meetings.
"At this stage, it is the beginning of long process. It's not going to be an easy process (and) at this point we don’t know what part of the process will be reflected in the Secretary General’s report to the security council,” scheduled for June 30, she said. “We are now talking about very difficult negotiations and as I say the beginning of the process.”
These talks were carried out under U.N. auspices, and facilitated by the Mr. Walsum. They were also attended by representatives form neighboring Algeria and Mauritania who were “consulted separately.”
Monday’s opening session was attended by Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs B. Lynn Pascoe who said that the talks marked the beginning of a new phase in the search for a solution on Sahara. He urged the parties to proceed in good faith and to establish an atmosphere of mutual trust, and expressed the firm commitment of the United Nations to assist in the negotiations. The U.N. official also stressed that the stalemate is becoming intolerable and that the dispute over Western Sahara must be brought to a conclusion through a mutually agreed solution.
“The time has come for a solution. We wish you the best of luck, and reiterate our commitment to assist this process in every way possible," Pascoe told the meeting.
The first round of these talks were held in accordance with Security Council resolution 1754 which called on parties to enter into negotiation “without preconditions and in good faith.”
The Moroccan delegation to these talks was led by Minister for the Interior Chakib Benmoussa who underlined the need to reach a political solution to the 32-year old dispute over the former Spanish colony that was ceded by Spain to the North African country by virtue of the 1975 Madrid Accords. He made it clear that the Moment of truth has come for both parties to tackle the issue with “good faith”.
“The moment of truth has come. There can be no more hesitation, prevarication, obduracy, manoeuvring or tendentious interpretations.”, said Chakib Benmoussa.
The Moroccan delegation included Deputy Foreign Minister, Taieb Fassi Fihri, Deputy Interior Minister, Fouad Ali Al Himma, chairman of the Royal Council for Saharan Affairs (CORCAS), Khalihenna Ould Errachid, head of Morocco’s Intelligence (DGED), Mohamed Yassine Mansouri, and Morocco’s ambassador to the U.N. El Mostafa Sahel).

SOURCE( www.corcas.com)

negotiations over sahara appropriate occasion for peace

Negotiations over Sahara appropriate occasion for peace,

Moroccan Minister of Interior, Chakib Benmoussa said, here Sunday, that the first round of negotiations between Moroccan and Polisario delegations are "in fact an appropriate opportunity for peace that Morocco intends to seize to turn the page and move forward."
Mr Benmoussa also voiced hope that the two-day negotiations (June 18-19), be an opportunity to fulfill an important breakthrough thanks to the good will of all the parties concerned and the support of the United Nations and of friendly-countries.
A delegation of high-ranking officials will represent Morocco in these talks to be held in Manhasset (New York outskirts) in accordance with a recent resolution of the United Nations Security Council calling for "negotiations without preconditions" between the two parties to solve the three-decade old Sahara dispute.
The delegation includes Minister of the Interior Chakib Benmoussa, deputy Foreign Minister Taieb Fassi Fihri, deputy Interior Minister Fouad Ali Al Himma, Chairman of the Royal Consultative Council for Saharan Affairs (CORCAS) Khalihenna Ould Errachid, chief of Morocco's intelligence (DGED) Mohamed Yassine Mansouri and Morocco's Ambassador to the U.N El Mostafa Sahel.
The Kingdom will take part to these talks "in good faith and optimism, spurred on by the will to reach a reconciliation and a final solution to this disagreement, which lasted too long," the minister told the press.
The United Nations resolution leads the way for a new process aiming to reach a final solution to this regional disagreement, he went on to say, stressing that Morocco is aware that the process has just started.
As to Moroccan delegation member and chairman of the Royal Consultative Council for Saharan Affairs (CORCAS) Khalihenna Ould Errachid, he considered that the good will of the parties concerned is likely to trigger a "constructive and positive process"." The peoples of the region await such a dialogue and agreement-based process to outstrip disagreements," highlighted Mr. Ould Errachid.
Talks between Morocco and the separatists have already been held in the past but failed to achieve a solution of the dispute over the former Spanish colony. Spain ceded the Sahara to the North African country in 1975 by virtue of the Madrid Accords, but the Polisario, backed by Algeria, continues to claims independence of the territory.

(source :www.corcas.com)

Negotiations over Sahara start in New York suburbs

Negotiations between Morocco and the Polisario about the Sahara were launched Monday afternoon (4 p.m. GMT) at Manhasset, in New York's suburbs and under and aegis of the United Nations.
The talks are launched in accordance with the 1754 resolution of the U.N. Security Council rendered on April 30, and which calls on the parties to the Sahara issue to "enter into negotiations without preconditions in good faith," with a view to "achieving a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solutions."
Besides Morocco and Polisario, the negotiations are attended by delegations from Morocco's neighbors, Algeria and Mauritania in the presence of the U.N. facilitator, Van Walsum.
The Moroccan delegation includes Interior Minister, Chakib Benmoussa, Deputy Foreign Minister, Taieb Fassi Fihri, Delegate Minister in the Interior, Fouad Ali Al Himma, chairman of the Royal Council for Sahara Issues (CORCAS), Khalihenna Ould Errachid, head of the Moroccan Intelligence, Mohamed Yassine Mansouri, Permanent Representative of Morocco at the U.N. El Mostafa Sahel. The delegation is accompanied by CORCAS Secretary General, Maouelainin Maouelainin Ben Khelihanna and Senior Governor of the southern city of Dakhla, Mohamed Salah Tamek as technical advisors.

source(www.corcas.com)

AN ANSWER TO THE LEADER OF THE POLISARIO

AN ANSWER TO THE LEADER OF THE POLISARIO



TAOUFIQ GAZOULIT



At the beginning of April the leader of the Polisario sent a letter to the newly nominated general secretary of the UN Mr Ban Ki-Moon, expressing his views about Western SaharaHe mentioned in his letter “the human right situation, the infringements on political freedoms, and the implementation of the right to self-determination of the people of western sahara. Mr Mohamed Abdelaziz was obviously referring to the present human right, and political situation of sahraouis who live in the southern region of the Kingdom of Morocco, he deliberately ignored the alarming situation in Tindouf camps inside Algeria, and the main historical and legal aspects of the conflict.Being myself a sahraoui , I have taken the liberty not only to clarify the aspects mentioned above but also to explain to what extent the Polisario is losing momentum although they have submitted a proposal to the UN, as An answer to the substantial autonomy proposal submitted by Morocco to the UN . The project consists of giving Western Sahara a substantial autonomy within Moroccan sovereignty. Sahraouis will have a parliament with power over local policies in terms of management and decisions concerning “southern provinces”, cabinet ministries, and their own judiciary, but the Moroccan flag would fly over the territory, the currency and stamps would be Moroccan, and the Moroccan king would remain the highest religious authority in the land. It is in the same context that the royal advisory council for Saharan affairs, commonly known by its French acronym CORCAS, was created by King Mohammed VI in march 2006, by enhancing its official status and defining its role to “foster the culture of dialogue, and thus pave the way for our citizens to help in this process and make practical proposals on matters pertaining to our country’s territorial integrity” (speech of 25th of march delivered by the monarch of Morocco).
This culture of dialogue is the king’s innovative initiative to seek solutions to significant issues facing Morocco. In 2004, Morocco’s truth and reconciliation commission was created to investigate past human rights violations and propose political and judicial reforms which were approved by the king. CORCAS was another example of the king innovative approach to make use of dialogue to find solutions to complex social and economic issues. It is worth mentioning that CORCAS is composed of 140 members (among them 14 women) they represent an ethnic, political, and tribal section of Moroccan society most of CORCAS’s members are representatives from all Sahraoui tribes, including the father of the Polisario leader Mohammed Abdelaziz.
CORCAS’s main task is to seek input from all parties concerned and affected by the 31 year old dispute in order to follow the right way towards a substantial autonomy for the Western Sahara. In this context the polisario was invited to take part of this national dialogue. Up to now the polisario leader has refused. The kingdom of Morocco has formally submitted its proposal to the United Nations)
Morocco regained Western Sahara in accordance with the treaty of 14 November 1975 signed between Spain and Morocco; this treaty marked the end of a continued struggle that lasted over a century. But it has created tension in the northwest of Africa. The Algerians blamed Morocco for refusing to recognise that the Sahraouis had the right to make their own decisions. What they did not appear to realise was that the entire Moroccan population, including Sahraouis, had been fighting for the return of the Sahara since 1884, when Spain laid claim to the area, and since gaining the incomplete independence in 1956. Morocco had continued the fight for unity and territorial integrity.It is not by chance that the general assembly resolutions adopted in 1965 and 1968 confirming the right to self-determination refer not only to the population of Ifni, but also to that of Western Sahara. Resolution 1514 considered to be the charter of decolonisation, states in paragraph 6 that : “any attempt to destroy partially or wholly the national unity and territorial integrity of a country are incompatible with the aims and ideas of the UN charter
In1956, when the protectorate had come to an end, Morocco demanded the return of Western Sahara in order to reconstitute national unity and integrity. Moroccans believe that the recovery of the ex Spanish Sahara was a result of a lengthy national struggle, they pointed out that in 1957 this struggle had resulted in the placing of the Moroccan army of liberation in some areas of the Western Sahara. If it was not for the joint military intervention in 1958 of both French and Spanish troops (Ecouvillon operation) the liberation and reintegration of the Saharan territory would already be carried out. This explains why for a legal and political point of view, the Western Sahara’s issue is still very much in the foreground of Moroccan minds.
the international court of justice in the Hague expressly recognized that Western Sahara was not a territory without a master but one over which Morocco exercised its sovereignty “……that at the time of colonization of Western Sahara by Spain, the Cherifian state had a particular character is certain. The particularity lay in that it was founded on the religious link of Islam which united the populations, and on the allegiance of the various tribes to the Sultan through the intermediary of their Caids or Sheikhs, more than on national territory” (see international court of justice / advisory opinion 16/10/1975 )
The link of allegiance is not just formal but has an effective and concrete juridical character which was recognized by the international court of justice, as the normal basis for the tie of nationality. The court therefore decided that Western Sahara was not a TERRA NULLIUS. Its population, although consisting mainly of nomads, was organized in tribes under the authority of elected sheikhs. It found that legal ties of allegiance between the Sultan of Morocco and the tribes living in the territory of Western Sahara existed and that this legal situation was recognized not only by the Sultan and the population concerned, but also by the international community.
As for the wishes of the Sahraouis, these were expressed on several occasions, firstly within the framework of mass participation in various electoral consultations organized in Morocco since 1975. Sahraouis were and still are able to vote for their representatives in the different local, regional, and professional institutions, as well as in the parliament. When it comes to the Sahraoui population, more than two thirds of sahraouis live in the Sahara within Moroccan borders. The rest which is around twenty per cent, including the political and military leadership of the Polisario live in the Tindouf camps inside Algeria. The Polisario can not be the sole and legitimate representative of Sahraouis, especially if we take into account that two third of Sahraouis do live under Moroccan sovereignty and most of them fully support the substantial autonomy project. At the same time, some of those living as refugees in Tindouf camps, south-west of Algeria back the autonomy seeing it a solution that guaranties political, economic and social rights of Sahraouis.
Despite the ideological decline of the Polisario it remains a radical totalitarian movement particularly in its methodology. It claims that the number of refugees in the Tindouf camps is around 155.000 people. The UN HCR estimates the figure between 70.000 and 90.000. The Moroccans estimate is lower. The Polisario has two reasons for inflating this number. It enables it to strengthen its legimacy as a main player in the conflict and also to receive humanitarian aid which is distributed in proportion to the number of refugees.
The Polisario was severely accused of human rights abuses, the detention, killing, and the abusive treatment of Moroccan prisoners of war from the late 70’s to 2006. Other accusations were that some of the Sahraouis are kept in the Tindouf camps against their will and do not enjoy freedom of expression.
In a report published in 2003, amnesty international concluded that “freedom of expression, association and movement continued to be restricted in the camps controlled by the Polisario near Tindouf in south western Algeria”.
A full and comprehensive report of an independent committee of inquiry into allegations of violations of human rights, crimes, abuses and various other irregularities brought against the polisario front, was submitted to the special political and decolonisation committee (fourth committee) of the United Nations on the 4th of October 2006. This 38 page report deals with the following aspects :
1. the use of torture; 2. the absence of even the minimum level of judicial process;3. the condition of detention;4. forced labour and rape;5. Malnutrition of prisoners and absence of medical care;6. the abdication of Moroccan citizens within the international recognised frontiers of Morocco. At the present time the Polisario is losing momentum. In fact, all the signs indicate that it will weaken further more in case the status quo remains. The Polisario leadership believes that The new proposal they submitted to the UN is the only way to remain an active player in the conflict . As to the Polisario, its creation took place in Zouerate in Mauritania, by twenty one Moroccan sahraouis the 28th of April 1973. When the Polisario front moved to the Tindouf area inside Algeria, automatically the Polisario became under the direct Algerian control, in this context it was the leadership of the Polisario that planed during November and December 1975 the emigration of a number of Sahraouis from their homes in the Sahara to Tindouf refugee camps. In fact the present refugees in the camps inside Algeria were victims oh systematic lies and manoeuvres of the Polisario.The Polisario has been feeling internal pressure since the 1991ceasefire. Thousands of sahraouis living in the refugees camps in Tindouf inside Algeria are kept against their will, and do not enjoy the basics of freedom of expression ,but in any case after three decades of isolation in a harsh environment, youngsters who have never been allowed to visit nor to join their families in the Sahara rail in frustration, according to Mrs Khadija Hamdi the wife of the leader of the Polisario “ young sahraouis started to get tired of living in the refugee camps” she added in an interview with a Spanish newspaper “ youngsters do not share the same goals, nor the same preoccupations like their parents(see Spanish newspaper :”Levante”08/1/2007) .A new movement was created in July 2004 called KHAT AL SHAHID (martyr line) which advocates a negotiated settlement of the Saharan dispute. Mahjoub Salek, the spokesman for the movement in an interview with TEL QUEL magazine explains that it represents itself as an alternative to the current Polisario front leadership, and is preparing a draft resolution of the conflict addressed to all the parties concerned including Spain, the EU and the UN (see TELQUEL magazine/Morocco n 243-2006)The Polisario can not claim to be the sole and legitimate representative of sahraouis, especially if we take into account that over two third of sahraouis do live under Moroccan sovereignty, and they fully support the substantial autonomy project proposed by the King of Morocco (see http:www.corcas.com) at the same time those living as refugees in Tindouf camps, south-west of Algeria back the autonomy seeing it a solution that guaranties political, economic and social rights of sahraouis.
I would like to remind the leader of the Polisario that the process of decolonization of Moroccan territories which were occupied by Spain took place through negotiations In this respect, Morocco regained the north zone in April 1956, Tarfaya and Tan Tan in 1958, Sidi Ifni in1969, and the Sahara 1975 when Spain and Morocco signed an agreement treaty.
AS to the referendum, I would like to remind again Mr Abdelaziz of the following facts that he seems to deliberately ignore:1. the war in the Sahara lasted 16 years from 1976 to 1991, the Polisario lost the war2. Since war brought about no solution; the UN tried to organize a referendum based upon identification. Nevertheless the UN became aware of the fact that the referendum is impossible to carry out since sahraouis do not live only in Morocco, but also in Algeria, Mauritania, and Mali. This means that they should be a change of these borders (this not acceptable by countries concerned) in order to organize a just and fair referendum. The UN general secretary confirmed that the organization of a referendum is impossible politically and technically.3. The polisario remains a totalitarian military and political movement, with single party system, sole institutions, with everything wrapped up in one-track thinking.4. Because of the nature of the polisario cited above, sahraouis in the refugee camps have lost their “liberties», but they will definitely regained them by the King’s wise proposal.5. It is not wise to sign your letter to the UN general secretary as “ the President of SADR” such republic does not exist on any territory, but in Algeria. It has not attribute of sovereignty, exists only on internet and in fictitious institutions on the territory of Algeria
THE Moroccan PROPOSAL meets international standards, transfers competences, and creates local institutions (legislative and executive) within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty; while leaving room for negotiations. It is notable that autonomy is an advanced form of self-determination.
THE YOUNG KING’S WISE PROPOSAL was prepared upon the request of the international community, and it has been a subject to large consultations with sahraouis CORCAS played a major role in the elaboration of such proposal. IT is wise that all parties concerned including Algeria consider the King’s proposal as a basis for any future settlement
THE YOUNG KING’S WISE PROPOSAL offers a golden opportunity to the leadership of the Polisario, to accept the only solution possible, a substantial autonomy under the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Morocco

THE LEGAL TIES BETWEEN MOROCCO AND WESTERN SAHARA

THE LEGAL TIES BETWEEN MOROCCO AND WESTERN SAHARA



BY: TAOUFIQ GAZOULIT




The legal ties between the Kingdom of Morocco and Western Sahara, went back to centuries, in fact the Sultans of Morocco legislated for the provinces of Western Sahara, as they did for the rest of the national territory. This legislation took the form of dahirs (decrees) and extended to economic activity through the control of trade and production, in particular as regard to fishing, the monopoly on which was generally reserved for the subjects of the Sultan except in cases of special concessions to foreigners. It also extended to the administration of the ports, in order to open or close them to foreign trade according to the requirements of national policy.
The legislative authority of the Sultan also related to raw materials and fiscal matters through the assessment, imposition and collection of taxes and dues. The Spanish historian HUICI says in his political history of the Almohad Empire, that Sultan Abdelmoumen levied taxes in the far souss, which straddles the valley of Seguia Al Hamra.
Allegiance to the Sultan was of a political and constitutional character, even at the time of colonization by Spain that is towards the end of the nineteenth century, the Sultan exercised legislative and executive powers, to which was added spiritual power. He exercised these powers by means of dahirs issued under his own signature. This means that the Sultan at that time personified the state through the powers he exercised. Allegiance to the Sultan was therefore equivalent to allegiance to the state. In this respect, it is worth stating that the legal ties between Morocco and Western Sahara were recognized by the international court of justice.
Internal manifestations of Moroccan authority over Western Sahara
The Moroccan Sultans exercised power by means of dahirs not only for executive but also for legislative matters. This was how they appointed and dismissed the caids to whom they gave responsibilities of government in a region, on a coast or over a group of tribes. The caids were the military commanders who also had administrative functions. The choice of a Sultan could fall on a person because of his local influence or family or tribal connections. In this respect, six historians, one French, Vernet and five Spanish: Domeneh, Lafluente, Seco de Lucena,Huici and Romeu, relate events which , in the case of vernet, date back to the seventh century .On page 36 of his work, “islamisation”, Vernet recounts how, after the Arab conquest of Morocco by Okba Ibn NAAFI in 681, Moussa Ibn Nosair ( a Lebanese chief converted to Islam who accompanied Tariq ben ziad in his crossing of the straits of Gibraltar and in the conquest of Spain )sent his son Merouan to the furthest Souss which is situated between the boundaries of seguia al hamra . Vernet also adds the following facts:
• In 740 the Moroccan governor (or caid) called Ismail Ben Obeidetallah was appointed to Seguia al hamra.• In 745 Okba’s great – nephew went almost to the end of Western Sahara and dug the first wells.• In 761 the Sahara had a Moroccan governor called Mohammed Sonjai, who conducted a campaign in the Sudan.
From this time on, continues Vernet the dynasty of the Idrissids did not cease to govern the Sahara until the following dynasty of the Almoravids.
THE MILITARY EXPEDITIONS
In the past, the authority of the Sultan over Western Sahara was recognized by the international community .The expeditions undertaken by the Sultans took two forms: some had the purpose of controlling Western Sahara and more particularly, Seguia al hamra, and others crossed Western Sahara in order to reach countries in the south as far as the river of Niger. The autoresse of “Avec les Rois Alaouites” Odette de Puigaudeau, notes that: “The cherifian interventions lost their character of conquest and only retained that of tours of Inspection and prestige”. This was at the end of Moulay Hassan’s reign, which is considered to be the first period of colonization by Spain. Documents show that reports written by diplomats admitted the legal ties between Morocco and Western Sahara. For example, in his report to the French foreign minister the French consul in Western Sahara wrote: “the expedition of Sultan Moulay Hassan to the Souss can be regarded as fully completed. It was a triumphal progress all the way. All the tribes made their submissions and swore allegiance to him. Even the very nomads of the Sahara were bent on bringing him fast camels and offering him their help in the holy war” (see report of 7 June 1886 to the French foreign minister. “Documents diplomatiques Francais 1871-1914”). What should be noted from this report are the passages concerning the oaths of allegiance of the tribes and the help which they offered the Sultan with regard to the holy wars
RELIGIOUS TIES
It is worth noting that the religious tie is one of the constituent elements of the legal ties between the Kingdom of Morocco and Western Sahara region. To prove the existence of this kind of tie one must quote in particular Paul Cambon, the French ambassador in Madrid, who reported the following observation to his minister of foreign affairs: “It has always been recognized that the territorial sovereignty of the Sultan extends as far as his religious suzerainty, and it is beyond doubt that the peoples of cape juby are subject to him from the religious point of view, we could consider its sovereignty as indisputable” (see “documents diplomatiques français 1871-1914, first series’ )
THE TREATIES
The legal ties between Western Sahara and the kingdom of Morocco were actually recognized in the treaties which took away Moroccan independence. These treaties are the basis to assess the ties that always existed between Western Sahara and the Kingdom of Morocco. To start with, there is the Anglo-Moroccan agreement of 13 march 1895, clause I of which reads as follows: “If this government buys the building etc…in the place above – named From the above-named company, no-one will have any claim to the Lands that are between Wadi Draa and cape boujdour, and which are called Tarfaya above-named, and all the lands behind it, because all this belongs to the Territory of Morocco”
Great Britain thus recognized that Moroccan territory extended to cape boujdour, including SEGUIA AL HAMRA. Moreover, the letters annexed to the treaty of 4 November 1911 signed between France and Germany, state: “Germany will not intervene in any special agreements which France and Spain may think fit to conclude with each other on the subject of Morocco comprises all the part of northern Africa which is situated between Algeria, French west Africa and the Spanish colony of Rio de Oro (wadi dahab)”
THE ALAOUITES AND WESTERN SAHARA
The Alaouite dynasty has ruled Morocco since the mid-seventeenth century. In pre-colonial times, three of the Alaouite Sultans: Moulay Rachid, Moulay Ismail, and Moulay Hassan, were already pursuing active Saharan policies. In 1905-1906, Sultan Moulay Abdul Aziz sent military support to sheikh Maouelainin to support him in his fight against the French.
Morocco continued the struggle against its division and occupation at the beginning of the nineteenth century. Moroccan resistance on the central government as well as the popular level, prevented the entire occupation of Western Sahara and the rest of Moroccan territory until the beginning of the last century, when this became unavoidable. However, the fight continued in different forms and finally led to the recognition of Morocco’s independence in 1956. The Moroccan Spanish declaration of 7 April 1956 and one signed with France on 2 march of the same year, contained confirmation of Spain’s desire to “respect territorial unity guaranteed by international treaties” and the commitment to “take all necessary steps to put this into effect” . In the same year the Moroccan army of liberation started organizing guerrillas for an offensive against the Spanish at Ifni, and Western Sahara. In 1957, the Moroccan Liberation army succeeded in pushing the Spanish back to the coast. It was only with the aid of French troops that Spain was able to re-establish itself in Western Sahara.
After Morocco independence late King Mohammed V formally claimed Western Sahara as an integral part of the Kingdom. In 1957, he set up the “direction des affaires sahariennes et frontalieres”, and on 25 February 1958 he formally demanded the return of Western Sahara to the motherland Morocco. He said in a famous speech in the little oasis town of M’hamed on the edge of the Sahara: “we will continue to do everything in our power to recover our Sahara and all that which, by historical evidence and by the will of its inhabitants, belongs as of right to our kingdom”
Late King Hassan II’s initiative in organizing a peaceful march to the Sahara, in November 1975 led to the Madrid agreement of 14 November 1975, it was in practical terms, the first step towards the process of decolonization of the west Saharan territories.The green march (Al Massira al khadra in Arabic), could be described as the master stroke which resolved the dispute between Morocco and Spain. Plans for the march, which was named after the holy colour of Islam, were first announced by King Hassan II on 16 October 1975.recruting offices were set up throughout morocco, and by 20 of October as many as 524,000 volunteers were said to have registered. The march caught the imagination of the Moroccan people. It was portrayed as a holy march (jihad), and its participants were told that they would be armed only with the coran and they should consider themselves as Mujahidin, or holy warriors, in a campaign to reclaim Islamic territory from the Spanish invaders. The marchers numbered 350,000 volunteers and gradually assembled in a vast tent city near Tarfaya .It became evident to the Spanish government as much as to western observers of this remarkable mobilization, that King Hassan II would be unable to call off the march or fail in his pledge to send the marchers across the border even if he had wished to do so , he said : “ I can not turn 350, 000 Moroccans who have responded to my call with enthusiasm into 350,000 frustrated Moroccans”.
As soon as Spain accepted the reopening of negotiations, on 9 November 1975, late king Hassan II ordered the marchers to return to their homes. On 14 november 1975, an accord was signed in Madrid to crown the negotiations with Spain By Morocco and Mauritania, in accordance with article 33 of the United Nations charter, and resolution 380.
The difference of opinion over Western Sahara which, until 1975, divided Morocco and Spain does not therefore date from the time when the United Nations organization took an interest in the issue. It dates back to the period in morocco’s history when, during the nineteenth century, the country was faced with the ambitious appetites of the colonial powers and their desire to divide Morocco in order to subjugate it.
King Mohammed VI, immediately after his enthronement in 1999, set forth a development strategy built on social and economic development. Initially, the new young king is seen as a reformer, keen to liberalize the economy, root out corruption and establish the rule of law and democracy. When he was crown prince he was beside his father late king Hassan II in most the national and international activities, and in particular when it comes to the Western Sahara issue. In this respect during summer of 1996 a delegation of the Polisario front led by Bachir Mustapha Said met the crown prince then Sidi Mohammed, that was in practical terms his first direct and secret meeting with the polisario delegation in Morocco, the aim of the meeting was about the application of Autonomy principle in western Sahara, in fact the polisario delegation was in favour of such settlement and also of continuing direct negotiations with the late king Hassan II
Even if the idea of autonomy is not new, Morocco has recently proposed a project for A substantial autonomy of Western Sahara. The project consists of giving Western Sahara a Large autonomy within Moroccan sovereignty. Sahraouis are expected to be offered a Parliament with power over local policies in terms of management and decisions Concerning southern provinces ; cabinet ministries, and their own judiciary, but the Moroccan flag would fly over the territory, the currency and stamps would be Moroccan, and the Moroccan king would remain the highest religious authority in the land.
It is in the same context that the royal advisory council for Saharan affairs, commonly known by its French acronym CORCAS, was created by King Mohammed VI in march 2006, by enhancing its official status and defining its role to “foster the culture of dialogue, and thus pave the way for our citizens to help in this process and make practical proposals on matters pertaining to our country’s territorial integrity” (speech of 25th of march delivered by the monarch of Morocco). This culture of dialogue is the king’s innovative initiative to seek solutions to significant issues facing Morocco. In 2004, Morocco’s truth and reconciliation commission was created to investigate past human rights violations and propose political and judicial reforms which were approved by the king. CORCAS was another example of the king innovative approach to make use of dialogue to find solutions to complex social and economic issues. It is worth mentioning that CORCAS is composed of 140 members (among them 14 women) they represent an ethnic, political, and tribal section of Moroccan society most of CORCAS’s members are representatives from all Sahraoui tribes, including the father of the Polisario leader Mohammed Abdelaziz.
The plan of a substantial autonomy transfers competences and creates local institutions (legislative and executive) within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty .again autonomy is seen by experts in international law as a very advanced form of self determination. This plan was prepared by the Royal Advisory Council for Sahara Affairs (see http://www.corcas.com) and it has been subject to large consultations with the sahraoui populations and Moroccan political parties, before being approved by the young king. On Wednesday, April 11, 2007 the Moroccan government submitted its proposal for a substantial autonomy for the Western Sahara region to the newly nominated secretary general of the United Nations organization, taking the first step, which the international community has called for repeatedly, toward a political direct dialogue with the parties concerned.In its 1754 resolution, on Monday, April 30, 2007 the UN Security Council “calls upon the parties to enter into negotiations without preconditions in good faith. The security council in its resolution concerning western Sahara has taken note of the Moroccan proposal presented to the UN secretary general “...and welcoming serious and credible Moroccan efforts to move the process forward towards resolution” it is an explicit recognition to the efforts made by Morocco, after long and various consultations with the international community ..The 1754 resolution is a fruit of Moroccan endless efforts to overcome the present deadlock. Morocco’s proposal was in no doubt supported by a large number of countries all over the world, among others the USA ,France, and Spain which openly congratulated Morocco for proposing and submitting a courageous and revolutionary project entitled "Moroccan initiative for Negotiating an Autonomy Statute for the Sahara region" whereas the Polisario proposal as the UN's secretary general personal envoy for Sahara, Peter Van Walsum described it «it is consistent With Polisario well known positions" he added that self- determination does not have to mean independence. There are many examples in the world where concerned populations chose, following referendum consultations or other, autonomy or total integration».The young King’s proposal was prepared upon the request of the international community, and it has been a subject to large consultations with sahraouis, IT is wise that all parties concerned including Algeria consider the King’s proposal as a basis for any future settlement . Morocco remains open to this solution that preserves its sovereignty, and territorial integrity, and that allows populations to manage directly, and democratically their local affairs. Morocco is ready to engage in a constructive negotiation to contribute concretely In the process of achieving a last and fair settlement to the Western Sahara issue.
CONCLUSION
The way in which Morocco succumbed to the foreign invaders is unique in the annals of colonisation. Having safeguarded for over twelve centuries its sovereignty, independence and territorial unity as the only organized state in the area, Morocco was, from the beginning of the last century the victim of systematic dismemberment on the part of the European powers. Apart from Ceuta and Melillia and certain towns occupied first by Portugal, and then from the sixteenth century, by Spain , Morocco was divided between France and Spain into several zones of influence, according to the treaty drawn up in 1912. Spain obtained the northern zone together with the entire southern area of Western Sahara comprising Seguia Al Hamra and Rio de Oro.
If one looks at the map of Morocco which has been printed over the years in the “Encyclopaedia Larousse” the surprising observation is that far from expanding at the expense of its neighbours, Morocco has in fact shrunk .Thus in 1888, Larousse described the surface area of the Moroccan territory as being 812,300 square kms, in 1900, the new illustrated Larousse reported it as being only 800,000 square kms0. When independence was declared, Morocco had only 430,810 square kms. After the regaining of Spanish morocco (April 1956) Tangiers (October 1956), the Tarfaya region (1958) the Ifni enclave (1969), Sagui Al Hamra (1976), and Rio de Oro (1979), the country was still barely more than 700,000 square kms.
Western Sahara has been an integral part of the Kingdom of Morocco since time immemorial, even though, historically, there were parts of both the northern and southern portions of Morocco which remained under colonial rule
Western Sahara has been both the heart of the Moroccan nation and the site of Moroccan resistance to colonialism.furthere more, the sovereignty of the Sultans over Western Sahara had always been recognized by other nations before the beginning of territorial imperialism at the end of the nineteenth century. Since the eighteenth century, numerous treaties had shown that foreign countries had recourse to the Sultan to protect their nationals in Western Sahara.
Attempts at territorial secession made at the end of the nineteenth century by the French, Spanish, and even Germans were those on the part of nations or peoples desirous of exercising economic activity in Western Sahara without recognizing local customs or regulations. The reaction of the Moroccan Sultans, in particular Moulay Hassan and the tribal leaders such as Maouelainin proved that these attempts were not made on a land without a ruler, (TERRA NULLIUS), quite the reverse.

DIRECT NEGOCIATIONS A CHALLENGE FOR A PEACE


BY : TAOUFIQ GAZOULIT

The unanimous adoption of the United Nations security council of the 1754 resolution, concerning the future of Western Sahara is seen by western observers as a break-point with the previous reports and resolutions advocated by the UN since 1990. In this respect the newly nominated secretary general of the UN IN Ban Ki-moon in his report to the security council reiterated his call to the parties, including Algeria to accept the principle of direct negotiations, without any preconditions in order to reach a settlement to the over three decade old Sahara conflict, he also quoted his personal envoy's analysis saying that "the security council had consistently made it clear that it would not impose a solution to the question of western Sahara, which had led him to the conclusion that there were only two options: either indefinite prolongation of the impasse, or negotiations without preconditions between the parties aimed at achieving a mutually acceptable political solution. In its 1754 resolution, on Monday, April 30, 2007 the UN Security Council “calls upon the parties to enter into negotiations without preconditions in good faith, taking into account the developments of the last months, with a view to achieving a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution”. It is worth mentioning that the security council in its resolution concerning western Sahara has taken note of the Moroccan proposal presented to the UN secretary general “...and welcoming serious and credible Moroccan efforts to move the process forward towards resolution” it is an explicit recognition to the efforts made by Morocco, after long and various consultations with the international community .In fact if we take into account that two proposals were submitted to the UN,members of the security council consider the Moroccan proposal not only the unique ,serious and credible towards a political settlement to the conflict but also a basis for any future potential negotiations, whereas the Polisario proposal did not bring any new elements nor practical alternative to the present deadlock .The 1754 resolution is a consecration of Moroccan endless efforts to overcome the present deadlock concerning the Western Sahara issue, in this respect Morocco managed to gain support of a big number of countries all over the world, most of them are influential within the international community, among others the USA ,France, and Spain which openly congratulated Morocco for the colossal efforts made by proposing and submitting a courageous and revolutionary project entitled "Moroccan initiative for Negotiating an Autonomy Statute for the Sahara region" whereas the Polisario proposal as the UN's secretary general personal envoy for Sahara, Peter Van Walsum described it «it is consistent With Polisario well known positions" he added that self- determination does not have to mean independence. There are many examples in the world where concerned populations chose, following referendum consultations or other, autonomy or total integration" The main strategic aim of the Moroccan proposal is that Sahraouis claims will be satisfied, and Algeria will keep its dignity, provided Morocco remains sovereign over its southern territories. The Moroccan proposal is an answer to the UN Security Council previous resolutions and to the constant international community appeals for a political solution to the Western Sahara issue, as it is a fruit of national and international consultations. The Moroccan young King Mohamed VI supervised closely the process of drawing up such a proposal that guarantees peace, security, and stability in the region of North Africa on one hand, and gives the Western Sahara sufficient autonomy to become effectively self-governing on the other hand. It is in my view and also of the international law experts that the Moroccan proposal is a form of self-determination which does not mean necessarily independence .The UN charter, the ultimate international jurisprudence stipulates that self-determination must take into account the territory integrity and unity, so autonomy remains one of the best solutions for self - determination, this type of substantial autonomy exists in the most highly developed countries across the world The Moroccan Substantial autonomy Plan should be seen by parties concerned as an initiative that achieves the principal of self- determination, through a free, modern and democratic expression regarding the autonomy statute .It is in no doubt in conformity with international legality as well as with international norms, and standards applicable in area of autonomy. Therefore it is wise for all parties concerned, and particularly the Polisario to consider the substantial autonomy proposal as a basis for any future settlement because it aims to come up with a peaceful solution where there is neither a winner nor a loser, and in respect of dignity of all parties. The UN security council is calling upon the parties to enter into negotiations, while Algeria welcomed the UN resolution, and Polisario declared its readiness to negotiate directly the issue with Morocco, the Moroccan Substantial Autonomy Proposal, is widely seen by both members of the UN security council, and the international community as an historical opportunity to the leadership of the Polisario, to negotiate a final settlement .The Moroccan proposal meets international standards, transfers competences, and creates local institutions (legislative and executive) within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty; while leaving room for negotiations. It is notable that autonomy is an advanced form of self-determination. The Moroccan proposal was prepared upon the request of the international community, and it has been a subject to large consultations with sahraouis. IT is wise that all parties concerned including Algeria consider the Moroccan proposal as a basis for any future settlementThe Moroccan plan was conceived to allow for open debate, Morocco remains open to any solution that preserves its territorial integrity, and gives once and for all sahraouis the opportunity to run democratically their local affairs .Morocco is ready to cooperate with other parties, and particularly with Algeria, as well as with the UN general secretary, and his special representative to reach a final and fair solution that is accepted by all parties.
The kingdom of Morocco is willing to participate in a constructive negotiation, and to contribute to its success. In the pursuit of this objective the kingdom of Morocco is relying on the good will of parties concerned in order to create healthy atmosphere, and rebuild trust which is vital to pave the way to achieve a settlement that enables the populations in the refugee camps inside Algeria to finally join their families and that allows Maghreb states to find unity, solidarity, and stability.
The council calls upon direct negociations, which should take place in the nearest future, and would be guaranteed by a report to be submitted to the UN Security Council at the end of June. The question remains: On what basis these negotiations will take place?
Nobody , for the time being is fully aware of the mechanism that would apply for such direct negotiations, particularly that the UN special envoy consultations has started and finished in Algeria, without visiting the other parties concerned , but facts on the ground shows that neither the Polisario front , nor Algiers are willing to put an end to this conflict. Algeria’s strategic goals in terms of Western Sahara issue are neither compatible with the content of the UN Security Council resolution nor with the Moroccan proposal, whereas the present polisario proposal, or at least the leader Mohammed Abdelaziz, and his small entourage would find it difficult to manoeuvre Vis a Vis Algiers.
Morocco is prepared to open negotiations with no preconditions with polisario over the future of the disputed Western Sahara, but the polisario according to various statements made by its leaders agrees to resume talks on the basis of an agreement of a referendum on independence, Its representative at the UN Ahmed boukhari said “talks will go nowhere if Morocco refuses to discuss a referendum on independence” this attitude of the separatist movement not only is in contradiction with the “direct good faith negotiations” urged by the Un security council, but also is not acceptable by Moroccans, or by the international community that advocates a political solution to the conflict.
The polisario leadership should perfectly understand that Western Sahara is an integral part of the Kingdom of Morocco, and the security council resolution (1754) was an endorsement of the Moroccan position, the Moroccan initiative provides a concrete and credible response to the principle of self determination and the opportunity to put an end to 30 years of hardship and family separation
It is no secret that Mohammed Abdelaziz is the Algeria’s man in the conflict; he is leading the polisario with an iron grip entirely supported by the Algerian political and military leadership .This strategic relationship between Abdelaziz and Algiers regime has led during the past few years to deep differences within the front, on one hand between those who have linked their future and destiny with Algiers at the expense of sahraoui refugee wellbeing, and on the other hand those who believe strongly that they are Moroccan sahraoui and therefore the principle of separatism has never been in the heart and soul of their fathers and ancestors throughout the history, and that Algeria is using them to achieve its own geopolitical goals they also see the Moroccan autonomy proposal as a golden opportunity to put an end to a such long conflict.
Although the international community “means business”, and insists to put pressure on parties concerned to achieve a political settlement. The question remains to what extent the Algerians are willing to change their politics towards Morocco, and towards the future of Western Sahara, and allow the moderate leadership of the front to effectively negotiate with Moroccan under the umbrella of the United Nations, and on the basis of the Moroccan substantial autonomy. The answer remains to be heard and seen.