New York, April 27, 2018 (SPS) – The United Nations Security Council will vote Friday on the draft resolution on six-month extension of the mandate of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO).
The draft resolution provides for six-month extension of the MINURSO's mandate until 31 October 2018 instead of one year and calls on the two parties to the conflict, Polisario Front and Morocco, to resume direct talks without preconditions.
It also reaffirms Security Council's full support for the efforts of the UN Secretary General's Personal Envoy for Western Sahara, Horst Kohler, as well as its commitment to assisting the parties to achieve a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution, which will provide for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara.
Taking note of the four rounds of negotiations held under the auspices of the UN Secretary General, the draft resolution recognizes the importance of the parties committing to continue the negotiations process without preconditions and in good faith.
It also underlines the need for MINURSO to fully implement its mandate, including its role in supporting the UN Personal Envoy to achieve a mutually acceptable solution. (SPS)
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