representing a coalition of 38 states.. Dominican Republic Backs Morocco's Sovereignty Over Western Sahara

GENEVA, Sept 15 (Reuters) - In a significant development in the decades-long dispute over Western Sahara, the Dominican Republic has expressed its support for Moroccos full sovereignty over its Saharan provinces on behalf of 38 states. This declaration was made by the Dominican Republic's Ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, Héctor Virgilio Alcántara, in a speech that reaffirmed this position.

A Diplomatic Milestone

The statement by the Dominican Republic is a diplomatic victory for Morocco, which has long sought international recognition of its sovereignty over Western Sahara. The region, a former Spanish colony, has been a contentious issue since the 1970s, with the Polisario Front, an independence movement, claiming it as an independent state.

Points of the Declaration:

1. ** and Support:** The Dominican Republic's declaration emphasizes the importance of unity around the principle of territorial sovereignty.
2. Recognition of Political Decisions: The statement acknowledges and supports Morocco's political decisions regarding the region.
3. Regional Stability: The backing of 38 states highlights the broader international support for Morocco's stance, which could contribute to regional stability.

Context of the Dispute

The Western Sahara conflict has been of tension for decades, involving multiple international actors and affecting regional dynamics. Here is a brief overview of the key players and the history of the dispute:

Key Players:

• Morocco: Claimsignty over Western Sahara and has administered most of the territory since the 190s.
• Polisario Front: A nationalist movement fighting for the independence of Western Sahara, recognized by several countries as the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR).
• Algeria: Supports the Polisario Front and has provided military and political backing.
• United Nations: Oversees the peace process through the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO).

Historical Timeline:

International Reactions

The Dominican Republic's declaration has sparked various reactions from the international community, reflecting the complex and contentious nature of the Western Sahara dispute.

Statements from Key Figures:

• United Nations: Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the need for a peaceful and mutually acceptable political solution to the conflict.
• European Union: High Representative Josep Borrell called for renewed efforts to achieve a lasting settlement through dialogue and negotiation.- African Union: Reiterated its support for the self-determination of the Sahrawi people but also urged all parties to engage in constructive.

Implications for Regional Stability

The ongoing dispute over Western Sahara has significant implications for regional stability in North Africa. The conflict has not only led to a protracted armed struggle but has also strained between Morocco and Algeria, two of the region's most influential countries.

Potential Consequences:

• Military Escalation: Renewed hostilities could lead to a broader regional conflict, drawing in other actors.
• Refugee Cris: The conflict has resulted in a large population of Sahrawi refugees, primarily based in camps in Algeria. Further instability could exacerbate this humanitarian crisis.
• Economic Impact: The region' rich natural resources, includingosphates and offshore, are key factor in the dispute. Unresolved tensions could impede economic development.

The Path Forward

As the international community to engage with the Western Sara conflict, several steps could be taken to move towards a resolution:

Steps Toward Peace:

1. Diplomatic Engagement: Encourage all parties to engage in meaningful dialogue to find a mutually acceptable solution.
2. UN-Led Med: Enhance the role of the United Nations in facilitating negotiations and monitoring the cease.
3. Confidence-Building Measures: Implement measures to build trust between Morocco and the Polisario Front, such as prisoner exchanges and humanitarian assistance.
4. Regional Cooperation: Foster greater cooperation among regional actors, including Algeria and Mauritania, to support a peaceful resolution.

Conclusion

The Dominican Republic's declaration of support for Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara is a significant development in the ongoing conflict. While the dispute remains complex and contentious, this diplomatic move underscores the importance of international unity and recognition in resolving long-standing territorial disputes. The path forward requires sustained diplomatic, regional cooperation, and a commitment to finding a peaceful and lasting solution that respects the rights and aspirations of all parties involved.

Key Takeaways:

• Diplomatic Support: The Dominican Republic's backing highlights growing international support for Morocco's stance on Western Sahara.
• Regional Implications: The conflict has broader implications for regional stability, with potential military, humanitarian, and economic consequences.
• Path to Peace: A resolution requires diplomatic engagement, UN-led mediation, confidence-building measures, and regional cooperation.

As the world watches, hope is that continued international engagement will lead to a peaceful resolution of the Western Sahara dispute, fostering stability and prosperity in the region.