On Wednesday, the Moroccan Consulate in the town of Pontoise, just outside Paris, hosted a seminar to mark the 49th anniversary of the Green March. The event focused on the influence of France’s position in supporting Morocco’s autonomy plan for the disputed Western Sahara region. The seminar, led by doctoral researcher Hassan Akhwad, delved into the historical context of this ongoing dispute and the significance of France’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara, particularly after the recent state visit by French President Emmanuel Macron to Morocco.
Akhwad elaborated on the diplomatic efforts made by Morocco under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, which have led to the withdrawal of recognition for the so-called Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic by more than 100 countries. He also highlighted the establishment of 30 consulates in the Moroccan Sahara as a testament to the growing international support for Morocco’s stance. Emphasizing the Moroccan autonomy proposal, Akhwad described it as the only realistic and sustainable solution to the artificial conflict over the region, with the backing of global diplomacy and recent developments at the United Nations.
The seminar was attended by the Moroccan Consul General, the President of the International Coordination for the Support of Autonomy in the Moroccan Sahara, and numerous members of the Moroccan community residing in France. The event underscored the historical legitimacy of Morocco’s claim to the Sahara. The seminar concluded with the screening of the King’s speech, commemorating the Green March, further reinforcing Morocco’s position on the issue.
07/11/2024
