Sahrawi elected officials and sheikhs of tribes reaffirm commitment to Moroccan autonomy plan as 'only solution' to artificial dispute over Sahara

In statements to the press after the meeting, they said they informed Mr. Ross of the firm and constant belief of Sahrawis in this initiative to which they have contributed in their capacity as representatives of the Sahrawi people or sheikhs of Sahrawi tribes, or as members of the Royal Advisory Council for Saharan Affairs (CORCAS).

Abdellah Salhi, a sheikhs of Sahrawi tribes, noted that "the project of autonomy is the only solution to the artificial dispute over the Sahara," adding that the separatist version marketed by Algeria and the Polisario won't affect the determination of the Saharawis based on Baiaa (allegiance) and the commitment to the initiative of autonomy under the Moroccan sovereignty.

For his part, Ibrahim Khaya, MP and one of the sheikhs of Sahrawi tribes said: "we informed Mr. Christopher Ross of our unwavering commitment to the pact of Baiaa which proves the strong old ties that bound the Sahrawi tribes to the Alawite Kings and Sultans, as well as our commitment to the Moroccan autonomy proposal.

MP Abladi Khadija said she discussed in the meeting with Mr. Ross the humanitarian aspect related to this artificial dispute over the Sahara, noting, in particular, the situation of Moroccans sequestered in Tindouf camps and who suffer from all forms of torture and abuse contrary to international charters and conventions.