Côte d’Ivoire reaffirms backing for Morocco’s Sahara autonomy initiative

Morocco and Côte d’Ivoire flags © DR

The delegation from Côte d’Ivoire has formally reiterated its support for Morocco’s autonomy plan for the Sahara region during a United Nations regional seminar of the Special Committee on Decolonization (C24) held in Managua. The Ivorian representatives emphasized the plan’s alignment with international law and UN resolutions, noting its endorsement by nearly 130 countries worldwide.

Key points raised by the Ivorian delegation included the plan’s recognition through UN Security Council resolution 2797 adopted in 2025. They highlighted how the initiative empowers local populations in the southern provinces through democratic elections and active participation in international forums. The delegation also pointed to advancements in human rights, including regional commission roles and cooperation with UN mechanisms.

Concerns over Tindouf camps and call for population census

During the discussions, Côte d’Ivoire expressed serious concerns about the situation in the Tindouf camps, urging for an urgent population census. The country stressed its commitment to a political solution under exclusive UN auspices, calling on all parties to embrace compromise and realism for a lasting resolution to the Sahara question.

The Ivorian position reflects growing diplomatic support for Morocco’s autonomy proposal, which continues to gain international traction as a viable path toward resolving the decades-long territorial dispute.