LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
May 12, 2007
Algeria and the Maghreb The editorial on Western Sahara ("Improving prospects in Western Sahara," Saturday) was both inaccurate and tendentious. Algeria's position on the Western Sahara question is clear and well-known: The issue is a matter of decolonization opposing the people of Western Sahara to the kingdom of Morocco that has yet to be resolved in full compliance with the U.N. Charter. That is why Algeria considers that respect of international legality is unavoidable in the search for a lasting solution to the issue of Western Sahara. On April 30, Algeria welcomed with satisfaction the vote of Resolution 1754 by the U.N. Security Council and reaffirmed its support for direct negotiations, under the auspices of the United Nations, between the kingdom of Morocco and the Polisario Front, with a view to reaching the political solution that will provide for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara. Let me also underline that construction of the Maghreb is a strategic choice made by Algeria. Algeria, which is open to all the concerns of our time, plays a positive and constructive role in the Maghreb. The sacrifices it made and continues to make in the fight against transnational terrorism are also for the benefit of the neighboring countries and the international community. Algeria strives for a peaceful and prosperous Maghreb that will not be built on the logic of the occupation of a territory in violation of international legality, but rather on the political will and the genuine engagement of all the North African countries to achieve their common goals in a cooperative enterprise aiming at ensuring lasting peace and long-term stability in the region.
AMEUR BETKA
Counselor, press officer
Embassy of Algeria
Washington
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