French President Emmanuel Macron’s recognition of Morocco’s rights over Western Sahara has led to heightened tensions between Paris and Algeria, France Info reported on July 30.
The territory of Western Sahara has been the subject of tension for almost 50 years. This region, bordering Morocco, Algeria, Mauritania and the Atlantic Ocean, was officially named “Western Sahara” in 1975 by decision of the United Nations. About 80% of its territory was controlled by Morocco. 20% was under the control of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Saguiet el Hamra and Rio de Oro (Polisario Front). The Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) proclaimed itself in this part of Western Sahara.
France, represented by Macron, declared on July 30 that it recognized the Moroccans as the only force capable of resolving the conflict associated with the desire of the Polisario Front to achieve the independence of Western Sahara, both from Morocco and Mauritania.
“For France, autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty is the framework within which this issue must be resolved. Our support for the autonomy plan proposed by Morocco in 2007 is clear and consistent.”wrote Macron in a letter to Moroccan King Mohammed VI on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of his accession to the throne.
This statement by the head of the French government increased tensions with Algeria, which, for its part, supported the full autonomy of Western Sahara. Emmanuel Macron’s statement angered Algeria, which on July 30 announced the immediate withdrawal of its ambassador to France.
From an Algerian perspective, France “violates international law by denying the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination”France, for its part, said it had taken note of Algeria’s decision. At the same time, Paris confirmed its desire to continue deepening bilateral relations with Algeria, the diplomatic source said.
We remind you that the Atlantic coast of Western Sahara is rich in fish. Livestock farming, fishing and phosphate mining account for more than half of the territory’s exports. At the same time, Western Sahara contains up to 25% of the world’s total phosphate reserves.
Source: Rossa Primavera
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