Ayachi Denounces France’s Influence on Spain’s Western Sahara Stance
BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Algiers, Algeria | November 18th, 2024 — Recent discussions on the Western Sahara issue have raised questions regarding France’s role in shaping Spain’s stance toward the territory’s status. Saïd Ayachi, President of the Algerian National Committee for Solidarity with the Sahrawi People, highlighted during a broadcast on Algeria’s International Radio Channel that French diplomacy may have influenced Madrid’s decisions, a dynamic rooted in historical and geopolitical complexities.
Historical Context and Franco-Spanish Relations
Ayachi linked France’s involvement in Western Sahara to longstanding diplomatic trends, referencing the Madrid Agreement of 1975. According to Ayachi, “France has historically supported Morocco’s approach to the Western Sahara and opposed the implementation of the UN-recommended referendum on self-determination.” This support aligns with Morocco’s autonomy plan, introduced in 2007, which Paris officially endorsed and reportedly helped shape.
Ayachi also suggested that France’s stance on Western Sahara reflects broader regional strategies, particularly its historical relationship with Algeria and its support for Morocco as a key ally.
Western Sahara in the International Legal Framework
The debate over Western Sahara has intensified following the European Court of Justice’s October 4 ruling, which confirmed that Morocco has no sovereignty over the territory. Despite this, French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed France’s support for Morocco’s claims, stating in July his backing of Morocco’s position during public remarks and meetings in Rabat.
Further, Macron authorized Christophe Lecourtier, France’s ambassador to Morocco, to lead an economic delegation to the occupied territories, signaling French interest in investments in the region. This approach appears to contrast with international rulings and UN principles regarding the status of Western Sahara.
Regional Dynamics and Algeria’s Perspective
Algeria has consistently supported the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination as outlined in UN resolutions. Algerian officials, including Ayachi, view Western Sahara as a decolonization issue requiring a fair and internationally recognized resolution. Algeria’s historical role in anti-colonial movements further underscores its advocacy for Sahrawi rights.
From Algeria’s perspective, France’s position aligns with broader patterns of colonial powers maintaining influence in Africa. Algerian diplomacy has reiterated the need for adherence to international law and the rights of peoples to self-determination, rejecting actions that might perpetuate colonial legacies.
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