The Question of Western Sahara « VICTORIA FRIENDS OF CUBA

Statement by Ambassador Oscar León González, Deputy Permanent Representative of Cuba, to the Special Committee on Decolonization, on the Question of Western Sahara.

New York, 15 June 2012 (Cubaminrex/Cuban Mission at United Nations)

Mr. Chairman,

For over 40 years, the people of Western Sahara have been struggling for their right to self-determination, enshrined in UN General Assembly resolution 1514 (XV).

On several occasions, the United Nations have reiterated that the conflict in Western Sahara is a decolonization issue within the scope of General Assembly resolution 1514 (XV). The Special Committee on Decolonization has a primary role in considering the matter.

The Saharawi people are the only ones to freely decide their future, in a sovereign manner, without pressure or conditions of any sort. So is confirmed by over 40 resolutions adopted by the United Nations since the inclusion of Western Sahara in the list of Non-Self-Governing Territories in 1963.

Mr. Chairman,

In recent years, four formal rounds of negotiation have been held under the auspices of the Secretary-General, and informal talks have been conducted. While no progress on the negotiations has been reported on the future status of that territory, the parties have reaffirmed their commitment to continuing to hold them. We hope efforts will continue to be made towards a solution ensuring the Saharawi people self-determination, in the context of agreements compatible with the principles and purposes of the Charter of the United Nations and General Assembly resolution 1514 (XV).

The Saharawi people need the support of the international community. Despite its scarce resources, Cuba has contributed, within its capabilities, to the development of the Saharawi people, particularly in the field of education.

In our country, there are 400 Saharawi youths currently studying at various levels and specialties of the education system, in accordance with calls made every year by the UN General Assembly for Member States to offer study and training opportunities to the inhabitants of .

I would like to conclude, Mr. Chairman, by reiterating that, as usual, Cuba will continue favoring a just and definitive solution to the question of Western Sahara, in conformity with relevant resolutions of the UN General Assembly and Security Council.

The Saharawi people can always count on the strong solidarity of Cuba in their heroic struggle to exercise their legitimate rights.

Thank you.