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UN Security Council Endorses Negotiations on Western Sahara Autonomy Under Moroccan Sovereignty

The U.S.-drafted measure pivots the UN process toward negotiating Moroccan autonomy with MINURSO extended.

Overview

  • Eleven of 15 members backed the U.S.-drafted resolution, with Russia, China and Pakistan abstaining, and Algeria declining to participate.
  • The text calls for talks based on Morocco’s autonomy plan, establishing elected regional legislative, executive and judicial bodies while Rabat retains defense, foreign affairs and religious authority.
  • The Council urges a renewed negotiation track involving Morocco, the Polisario Front, Algeria and Mauritania.
  • MINURSO’s mandate is extended for one year as Secretary-General António Guterres and envoy Staffan de Mistura seek a mutually acceptable outcome.
  • Polisario and Algeria reject the approach and press for an independence referendum, while Morocco’s king welcomed the decision and crowds celebrated in Moroccan cities.