No Confirmation on UN Envoy’s Western Sahara Visit, Says Spokesman

No Confirmation on UN Envoy’s Western Sahara Visit, Says Spokesman

UN Spokesperson Addresses Uncertainty Over Staffan de Mistura’s Regional Tour

The United Nations spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, has stated that a regional visit by UN Envoy for Western Sahara, Staffan de Mistura, remains unconfirmed, adding to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the matter.

Last week, journalists sought clarification on the status of de Mistura’s reported regional tour, prompting the UN spokesperson to respond on September 1.

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In his reply, Dujarric acknowledged the multitude of reports, theories, and rumors surrounding de Mistura’s activities. However, he emphasized that nothing is official regarding the planned visit “until it is announced from here,” referring to the UN.

“We have nothing to share with you at this point,” Dujarric added, underscoring the lack of concrete information on the matter.

Mistura Open to All Parties

Questions about de Mistura’s visits, including those to Morocco, have repeatedly arisen. Some reports even speculated about Morocco’s alleged refusal to receive the UN envoy in Rabat.

However, a UN spokesperson previously refuted these claims, highlighting de Mistura’s multiple visits to all parties involved in the Western Sahara dispute. The spokesperson also pointed out that de Mistura invited all concerned parties and members of the Group of Friends of Western Sahara to informal bilateral consultations at UN Headquarters in March.

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The UN has also debunked rumors of de Mistura’s “absence” from public view, asserting that he maintains direct communication with all parties to the dispute.

Upcoming UN Annual Report and Security Council Meeting Loom

In the coming month, or possibly early in October, the UN Secretary-General’s annual report on the Western Sahara situation is expected. This report serves to brief the international community, including the Security Council, on the latest developments in the long-standing regional dispute.

Following the report’s release, a UN Security Council meeting will convene, during which member states will vote on the extension of the mandate of the UN peacekeeping operation MINURSO, a pivotal decision in the ongoing efforts to resolve the Western Sahara issue.