Ivory Coast reiterates firm support to political solution to Sahara dispute, Minister
Morocco-Ivory Coast, Politics, 3/16/2004

The Government of Ivory Coast has reiterated its " firm support " to a political and final settlement of the Sahara dispute opposing Morocco and the Algerian-backed separatist movement "Polisario."

A joint communique published, Saturday, at the end of the 4th meeting of the joint Morocco-Ivory Coast Commission of cooperation, said the two sides renewed their attachment to "the countries' sovereignty and territorial integrity."

The communique said that Ivory Coast is " concerned by the humanitarian aspect of the Sahara issue, has urged for the release of the Moroccan prisoners still detained" by the Polisario in the Tindouf camps (southwestern Algeria).

The two sides "strongly wished that all obstacles be overcome so that Morocco retrieves its place within the African Union," in reference to the formerly known Organization of African Unity, a regional grouping which Morocco quit in early 80s following the admission as a member of the Polisario-proclaimed "Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic."

The 4th meeting of the joint commission held March-11-13, was co-chaired by the two countries foreign ministers Mohamed Benaissa and Mamadou Bamba.

Both officials expressed satisfaction at the outcome of this meeting that was highlighted by the signing of several cooperation agreements in various fields.

Previous Stories:
  Moroccan FM holds talks with Ivoirian peer; cooperation talks   (6/7/2003)
  Morocco renews commitment to peace and development in Africa   (6/2/1999)

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