UN Envoy Staffan de Mistura Embarks on Diplomatic Mission in Occupied Western Sahara
BY: Hana Saada
Laayoune, Western Sahara — In a significant step towards resolving the long-standing conflict in Western Sahara, the United Nations Secretary-General’s personal envoy, Mr. Staffan de Mistura, has commenced a pivotal visit to the occupied territories. The UN’s mission is to facilitate dialogue and foster a peaceful resolution to the decades-old dispute over the status of Western Sahara.
Mr. de Mistura’s arrival in Laayoune on Monday marked the start of a comprehensive mission to engage with all relevant stakeholders and assess the prevailing situation on the ground. His visit carries immense significance as it precedes the forthcoming report to the United Nations Security Council by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, scheduled for October.
This diplomatic undertaking underscores the international community’s commitment to addressing the protracted Western Sahara issue and advancing a just and lasting solution for the Sahrawi people.
The Western Sahara conflict is rooted in decades of political strife and territorial disputes. The United Nations has played a pivotal role in mediating the conflict through various missions and initiatives. Mr. de Mistura’s current mission represents a renewed effort to encourage dialogue and consensus-building among the parties involved.
The visit to Laayoune, the largest city in Western Sahara, is a crucial first step for Mr. de Mistura. It provides an opportunity to engage with local authorities, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to gain a better understanding of the challenges and aspirations of the Sahrawi people living under occupation.
In the UN’s official statement, it was stated, “Thereafter, he looks forward to carrying out visits to the region and meetings with all relevant parties before the issuance of the report of the Secretary-General (Antonio Guterres) to the Security Council in October.”
The upcoming report to the Security Council will be closely watched by the international community, and Mr. de Mistura’s efforts on the ground will undoubtedly inform its content. The Security Council remains committed to finding a peaceful and mutually acceptable solution to the Western Sahara conflict, and the Secretary-General’s report will play a pivotal role in guiding future diplomatic initiatives.
Mr. de Mistura brings a wealth of diplomatic experience to his role as the UN’s personal envoy, having previously served as Special Envoy for Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq. His appointment to the Western Sahara mission underscores the UN’s commitment to finding a just and sustainable solution for the region.
