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France supports Moroccan autonomy plan for Western Sahara

Algeria expressed on Thursday its "deep disapproval" of the recent French decision to support Morocco's autonomy plan for Western Sahara. This stance was described as "unexpected, inappropriate, and counterproductive" by the Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Algerian government clearly stated that it would draw all the consequences from this decision, placing full responsibility on the French government.

The French recognition of the Moroccan autonomy plan, seen as legitimizing Morocco's contested sovereignty over Western Sahara, provoked a strong reaction in Algeria. The Algerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned this decision as an act supporting a "colonial fact," which is incompatible with the principles of decolonization supported by the international community. This stance is all the more controversial given that it comes from a permanent member of the UN Security Council, which is supposed to respect and promote international legality.

Algeria considers this decision an obstacle to the peaceful resolution of the Western Sahara issue, pointing out that the Moroccan autonomy plan has led to a prolonged impasse for more than seventeen years. The ministry expressed regret that this French stance does not take into account international efforts to achieve a fair and lasting solution to the conflict.

The Algerian reaction reflects a deep concern about the impact of this decision on regional stability. By describing French support as a "questionable political calculation," the Algerian Foreign Ministry highlights a major divergence of views between Algiers and Paris. This divergence could have repercussions on bilateral relations, which are already marked by historical tensions and political disagreements.

The Ministry's statement concluded that this French decision is counterproductive for achieving peace in Western Sahara, that it helps prolong a deadlock, and that it justifies and consolidates the colonial fait accompli in this territory. The Algerian government warned that it would take appropriate measures in response to this decision, clearly indicating that Algerian-French relations could further deteriorate following this diplomatic development.

In summary, the French recognition of the Moroccan autonomy plan for Western Sahara threatens to deepen tensions between Algeria and France, exacerbating existing disagreements over issues of sovereignty and decolonization. This development could also affect political and security dynamics in the Maghreb, a region already fragile and complex in geopolitical terms.

Personally, I do not find this decision surprising. Macron seems to be penalizing Algeria for its lack of "cooperation" and especially its "intransigence" on memorial issues. Under strong internal pressures orchestrated by lobbies hostile to Algeria, he has had to yield in a political context where he is increasingly weakened. Through this carefully considered decision, France is aware that it is definitively distancing itself from any prospect of reconciliation with Algeria. France's isolation in the Sahel and the rise of Russia in this region, long considered its backyard, are also arguments in favor of this decision, which aims to grant Morocco legitimacy in Western Sahara, using it as an anchor point in a future attempt to regain influence in this strategic region.

Regarding the essence of the Sahrawi issue, this decision changes nothing, as only the sovereign Sahrawi people can decide their fate through a self-determination referendum, a right guaranteed to them by the United Nations Charter. It is an inalienable and imprescriptible right.

Belgacem Merbah

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