Harare, Feb 11, 2014 (SPS) - Senior Minister of State in the Zimbabwean President’s Office H.E. Mr. Simon Khaya Moyo has expressed “concern” over the continuation of Moroccan occupation in Western Sahara, asking to halt the “heinous crimes” committed by Moroccan authorities against innocent Saharawis.
In a meeting held today at his office in Harare with the Saharawi Ambassador Mr. Deich Mohamed Saleh, Mr. Moyo voiced his government and party’s concern over Morocco’s continued occupation of Saharawi Republic territories.
“We never accept the continued occupation and looting of the natural resources of this African country, as well as Morocco’s delays that ignore international legitimacy and the inalienable principle of self-determination. These heinous crimes committed by the Moroccan authorities against the Saharawi citizens must be halted,” said head of Zimbabwe’s diplomacy.
The minister described as “excellent” the bilateral relations that bind the Republic of Zimbabwe and Saharawi Republic, reaffirming commitment to continue supporting the just struggle of the Saharawi people for freedom and independence.
He also called on the African Union (AU) to intensify efforts to put an end the state of occupation in Western Sahara.
Ambassador Deich, for his part, congratulated Mr. Moyo on his ministerial appointment and Zanu-PF for resoundingly winning the harmonised elections last year.
He briefed his Zimbabwean counterpart on the continued occupation of his country by Morocco and that the Polisario Front was grateful for the support it was getting from Zanu-PF.
“Saharawi Republic is the only country in Africa that is still a colony, ironically under the rule of another African country. Morocco has continued with its brutal and repressive practices on Saharawi civilians who are simply seeking the application of a United Nations resolution,” added the Saharawi diplomat.
“It is shameful that after 20 years of United Nations peace keeping mission on the ground, no progress has been made to have the referendum for self determination.”
Ambassador Saleh said Morocco, with the assistance of some Western countries, was plundering Saharawi’s natural resources.
“We have been fighting for the last four decades, but up to now the situation has not ended because of Morocco,” said Ambassador Saleh. (SPS)
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