Support and recognition for the Sahrawi peace movement

It is with great pride and honor that I stand before you today, as a Moroccan, to address this international conference for dialogue and peace, focused on the Sahara question.

Allow me first of all to extend my warmest greetings to the Sahrawi peace movement behind this initiative. Their unwavering commitment to peace and stability in the region deserves our full support and recognition. They have worked with determination to establish constructive dialogue and promote peaceful solutions to this complex issue.

As a Moroccan, I am proud to underline my country's commitment to resolving this dispute. Morocco has proposed an innovative and pragmatic solution, namely autonomy for the southern regions under its sovereignty. This proposal is tangible proof of our determination to find a lasting solution to this conflict, respecting the aspirations of the local populations and promoting the region's socio-economic development.

Autonomy would offer the people of the Sahara in general the opportunity to manage their internal affairs, to participate actively in the decisions that concern them, and to enjoy the fruits of progress and development. This is a democratic approach, respectful of human rights and in line with international standards.

Morocco has also worked tirelessly to promote stability and cooperation throughout the region. We actively seek to strengthen our ties with our neighbors, both economically and in terms of security, in order to foster prosperity and peace for all. We firmly believe that dialogue, exchange and mutual understanding are the keys to achieving a peaceful and lasting resolution to the dispute.

Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to all the countries and organizations that have supported and encouraged our efforts in this dialogue and peace process. Your invaluable support strengthens our determination to find a mutually acceptable solution and usher in a new era of cooperation in the region.

Ladies and Gentlemen, we are gathered here today to build a better future for present and future generations. Together, we can overcome the obstacles and build a future of peace and prosperity for all. Let us resolutely embark on the path of dialogue and mutual understanding, in order to achieve a just and lasting solution for our Sahara.

Thank you for your attention.

Omar El Alaoui El Balrhiti. President of the Association Nord Sud Action and Vice-President of the Conseil Régional du Tourisme de Dakhla Oued Eddahab.

Speech at the 2nd International Conference on the Sahara, for Dialogue and Peace in Dakar.