UNHCR hails formalization of its presence in Sahara

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) hailed the formalization of its presence in the Sahara.

"I am happy to announce, after a visit by a Moroccan delegation to Geneva, that the HCR presence in the Sahara was made more formal," Assistant High Commissioner for Refugees, Soren Hessen-Petersen said before the 14th session of the UNHCR permanent committee.

Such an evolution "will help us better prepare for the return of Sahrawi refugees," he said.

He conceded that the launching of the refugees return operation depends on the implementation of the UN settlement plan and on the settlement of pending political problems. He added that the HCR will keep in close contact with the UN secretary-general in this regard.

Moroccan interior minister, Driss Basri said last week that all practical measures have been taken to allow for the installation of the representative of the UNHCR and the beginning of its activities in the best conditions.