On this occasion, Ban Ki-moon hailed the significant results and progress made by Morocco in the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

He also paid tribute to reforms launched by HM the King. He stressed the "leadership of HM the King in a set of themes cherished by the UN" and his "pertinent mediations in several conflicts in the world."

Ban Ki-moon underlined his appreciation for the Kingdom's important contribution to achieving the UN's ideals in relation to peacekeeping and the promotion of multilateral cooperation.

For his part, the Sovereign reiterated Morocco’s steadfast support for the UNSG’s efforts for the reinforcement of the Organization’s action, the diversification of its agenda and its strong involvement in managing various global issues.

Referring to the Moroccan Sahara issue, the Sovereign reaffirmed the commitment of Morocco to cooperating with the UN to reach a final political solution to this regional dispute.

In this regard, the Sovereign recalled the significant efforts made by Morocco to break the deadlock over this issue, mainly through submitting in 2007 the audacious and substantial autonomy initiative.

HM the King underlined that this initiative stands out in sharp contrast to outdated approaches, mainly the referendum with multiple options which proved to be unfeasible and a source of tension and instability.

Political talks, the Monarch went on to say, should continue on the basis of goodwill, realism and a spirit of compromise, away from any instrumentalization of outlying issues privileged by other parties which are attached to the status quo and blockage.

HM the King and the UNSG underlined the importance of a collective, convergent and inclusive approach to face up to the worrying security situation in the Sahel-Saharan region.

Source: MAP
News and events concerning Western Sahara issue/ Corcas