Forty countries reaffirmed their support for Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern territories during the 62nd session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.

This emerged from a declaration read by Morocco’s ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, Omar Zniber, on behalf of the group, stressing that the Sahara issue remains on the political path advocated by the UN under the Security Council’s authority.

The statement underlined that the autonomy initiative proposed by Morocco constitutes a serious and realistic basis for a lasting political solution to the conflict, while reaffirming support for the implementation of Security Council resolution 2797, aimed at relaunching the political process with participation of the concerned parties.

The backers of the initiative also welcomed Morocco’s elaboration of the autonomy proposal and its commitment to integrate the population of the Tindouf camps, guaranteeing their rights equally with other citizens. They also praised Morocco’s cooperation with UN human rights mechanisms, which they considered evidence of a positive commitment to promoting and protecting rights and freedoms.

The statement noted that the opening of general consulates by several countries in Laayoune and Dakhla demonstrates growing international support for Morocco and helps strengthen development, investment, and regional cooperation in the southern provinces. The group concluded its declaration by emphasizing that settling the conflict would boost integration and development in the African and Arab regions.