Sahrawi cause: Makhzen fails to drag Portuguese President who affirmed country’ support for UN Resolutions
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- In a resolute stance, the President of Portugal has affirmed his country’s unwavering support for the United Nations’ resolutions regarding the Sahrawi question.
During a press conference held in Lisbon on Tuesday, Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa expressed his country’s unwavering support for the United Nations’ resolutions regarding the Western Sahara issue.
President de Sousa, alongside President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, emphasized that Portugal’ stance on this matter remains consistent, with a deep respect for the role of the UN and its resolutions in addressing the question of Western Sahara.
The Moroccan Makhzen’s attempt to embroil Portugal in a diplomatic crisis with Algeria was in vain. Despite the Moroccan regime’s pressure on Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa during his recent visit to the Alawite kingdom, he skillfully sidestepped Moroccan pressures and temptations and announced his country’ support for the United Nations’ efforts to resolve the conflict. This visit came after nearly six years of cold bilateral relations, with Lisbon maintaining neutrality regarding the Sahara issue.
The United Nations has officially recognized the referendum on self-determination of the Saharawi people, as per the agreement signed between the two parties in 1991 under the auspices of the UN. This agreement paved the way for the establishment of an international committee, known as MINURSO, to oversee the organization of the referendum in Western Sahara. Additionally, the agreement included a resolution for a cease-fire, which unfortunately collapsed on November 13, 2020, following the Moroccan army’s attacks on unarmed Sahrawi demonstrators at the Guerguerat crossing.
Portugal’s position underscores Portugal’s commitment to upholding international law and promoting peace and stability in the region. The country’ steadfast support for the UN’s efforts to resolve the cause is a testament to its dedication to the principles of justice and diplomacy. As a responsible member of the international community, Portugal recognizes the importance of finding a just and lasting solution to this issue, and will continue to work towards this goal in collaboration with the UN and other stakeholders.
Sneak peek into Algerian, Portugal bilateral ties
Bilateral relations between Algeria and Portugal date back to Algeria’s independence in 1962. Portugal has a significant Algerian population, and the two nations have consistently demonstrated cooperation in economic and political realms. Currently, their relations are characterized by a mutual desire for collaboration and increased trade.
Algeria and Portugal have made significant efforts to cement their economic ties. In 2020, trade between the two countries reached €2 billion, which signifies a considerable increase compared to previous years. Portugal exports mainly machinery, textiles, and chemical goods to Algeria, while Algeria exports energy and mineral products to Portugal. Recently, there have been talks of boosting cooperation in renewable energy and sectors such as agriculture and fisheries.
In the political arena, Algeria and Portugal work together to promote peace and stability across the African continent.
