UN says Washington talks on Western Sahara took Morocco’s autonomy plan as basis; self‑determination still unresolved
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Summary
The UN spokesperson said Special Envoy Stephane de Mistura co‑chaired interministerial negotiations in Washington, with the discussions taking Morocco’s autonomy proposal and Security Council resolution 2797 as a basis; she said further work is required, especially on self‑determination.
The United Nations press briefing on Feb. 26 included an update on Western Sahara negotiations. The spokesperson said Special Envoy Stephane de Mistura co‑chaired a meeting in Washington with U.S. officials, including Ambassador Mike Waltz and senior White House advisers, taking Morocco’s autonomy proposal and Security Council resolution 2797 as the basis for discussion.
"This is encouraging and significant work will still be required, including on the key issue of self determination for the people of Western Sahara to reach a mutually acceptable solution to the conflict," the spokesperson said.
When asked later if de Mistura would give an in‑person briefing, the spokesperson said the envoy had chosen not to speak publicly for now because of the sensitivity of the discussions, and she said she would notify the press when he was available. A reporter also asked whether secretariat staff would attend closed Security Council consultations on the issue; the spokesperson said she would check.
No new negotiated outcomes or Security Council decisions were announced at the briefing.