General Assembly: 39th plenary meeting, 81st session

All right. The 39th plenary meeting of the General Assembly is called to order. The Assembly will resume its consideration of agenda item 62, entitled “Use of the veto.” to hold a debate pursuant to resolution 76/262 of 26 April 2022, on the situation as to which the veto was cast at the 10,260th meeting of the Security Council on 30 October 2026, under the agenda item entitled “The situation concerning the Western Sahara”. The documentation under this item is listed in the journal of the United Nations. I will now make a statement on behalf of the President of the General Assembly. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, we meet today pursuant to General Assembly resolution 76/262, due to a veto cast in the Security Council on 30 October on the draft resolution S/2026/868 under the agenda item “The situation concerning Western Sahara”. For 35 years, the women and men of MINURSO served under the United Nations flag in the Western Sahara with the aim of monitoring the ceasefire and creating conditions conducive to the pursuit of a political solution. Twenty lost their lives in that service. As the mission enters its liquidation period, I wish to begin this meeting by honouring their memory. We pay tribute to all who served and the troop-contributing countries that supported the mission. Their dedication reflects the commitment of the United Nations to the pursuit of peace. Excellencies, the veto initiative rests on a simple premise: on the matters of international peace and security, every Member State has a voice. When the Security Council is unable to reach a decision due to the use of the veto, resolution 76/262 ensures that the entire membership of this Assembly can be heard. In doing so, the initiative strengthens collaboration between the Security Council and the General Assembly, each within its respective mandate, in our common responsibility to promote international peace and security. This debate is an expression of that shared responsibility. I welcome the timely submission of the Security Council special report, which supports an informed and substantive discussion. I encourage all delegations to approach today’s debate in the spirit of mutual respect and constructive dialogue. Let us keep our focus on the pursuit of a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution in accordance with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. I thank you. Before proceeding further, it had been proposed that the time limits for the statements in this debate be five minutes for individual Member delegations speaking on their national capacity and seven minutes for statements made on behalf of a group of States. The delegation of Namibia and the Russian Federation have informed the President of their objection to this proposal. Accordingly, no speaking time limit will be applied to this debate. Nonetheless, delegations are encouraged to keep their statements brief, taking into account this suggested time limit. So now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Russian Federation.

Mr. President, the Russian Federation voted on 30 October against the US draft Security Council resolution on the extension of the mandate of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara. This decision was guided by Russia’s clear and consistent position on the question of Western Sahara. Right from the outset of negotiations on the text, we made our position clear: it must take into consideration the point of view of both parties to this long-standing conflict, the Kingdom of Morocco and the Frente Polisario. Only such an approach can advance the political process and help achieve a reliable and lasting solution to the question of Western Sahara. Regrettably, the draft tabled by our American colleagues was fundamentally at odds with that objective. Embedded in it was the attempt to impose upon all members of the Council the national position of the US, a position that, as is well known, has evolved since 2017. It is based on the recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over the territory of Western Sahara. We take Washington's position into account and have to take it into account, however, it cannot be imposed on the Security Council. We are talking about maintaining the integrity of the Council. Let me immediately caution against drawing parallels with any other territorial disputes. It's important to remember that the question of Western Sahara is an issue of decolonization. The final status of the territory was to be determined with the assistance of the UN, with a fair and equitable consideration of the aspirations of the people of Western Sahara. Resolutions extending the mandate of the mission established in 1991 for 25 years were adopted with few exceptions by consensus. The text remained largely unchanged. It had all core tasks for which MINUSO was originally created. However, in 2017, the situation changed. Year after year, the resolution began to include controversial elements that shifted the balance of what had been once a carefully calibrated text. Security Council Resolution 2351 of the 28th of April 2017 was the last contentious decision taken by the Council on this. The culmination came this year, when there was a document with language that effectively reversed progress towards a fair settlement. The second party to the negotiations, the Frente Polisario, was sought not merely to be overlooked, but indeed marginalized. It should be recalled that, like Morocco, the Front has put forward its own vision for resolving the conflict, yet the draft resolution that we blocked reflected only the position of Rabat. It also contained proposals regarding the issue of Western Saharan refugees that had not been agreed with the Frente Polisario. Thus, the Western Sahara question would have been definitively recast from an issue of decolonization into a domestic political and humanitarian matter. Such an approach would permanently foreclose alternative avenues through which the people of Western Sahara could determine their own future. We're completely aware of realities on the ground in the territory of Western Sahara. We recognize that one of the parties has done a lot in improving urban infrastructure, promoting long-term development, and improving the economy in the territory. However, this does not automatically confer primacy in the context of a political settlement. Any proposals concerning genuine autonomy must be aligned with the aspirations of the Sahrawi people, respecting their dignity and upholding their right to a fair resolution, rather than being presented as the only possible outcome. Mr. President, during the negotiations on the draft resolution, we never closed the door to dialogue, right up until the last moment. We reiterated our readiness to extend the MINUSO mandate on the basis of 27/19, 97, without modification. Instead, we were told that maintaining the status quo was unacceptable and the Council should support a negotiating process led by the US, which allegedly has generated new momentum and a turning point in the settlement process. We had no intention of bringing the mission's work to an end. Faced with a risk of deadlock, we proposed an alternative five-paragraph draft resolution. Its premise was straightforward: if the Council could not agree on the substantive content of the resolution, it should adopt a concise technical rollover extending MINUSOAH's mandate for one year. This proposal was rejected. on the technical extension of MINUSO, two other delegations voted in favour. The remaining members abstained and thus effectively supported the mission's closure. All of the explanations and politicised statements that followed are yet another example of the shameless hypocrisy of the Council's Western members. The facts remain facts. There was an opportunity to preserve MINUSO. That was rejected. We therefore urge all those who claim that Russia bears responsibility for the termination of the UN presence in Western Sahara to stop. We hope that the UN assistance in the settlement process will continue in a thoughtful and consistent manner. In the spirit of the approaches championed by former personal envoy James Baker, Russia notes the mediation efforts undertaken by the US and the UN to establish dialogue between Morocco and the Frente Polisario, including three rounds of consultations this year. From the outset, we have said that this negotiating process should not impose decisions on the Council on Western Sahara. If the mediators engage candidly with both parties on an equal footing and take into account the views and recommendations of neighboring states, their work can bear results. The key to success lies in enjoying the confidence of both parties. In conclusion, sir, we'd like to note that the developments in the Security Council on the 30th of October once again underscored the importance of the veto as a restraining, corrective mechanism in situations where all possibilities for dialogue on a decision have been exhausted. Russia will continue to exercise this right responsibly and will resort to it only as a measure of last resort. both in defense of its national interests and in order to help ensure fair and equitable solutions to crisis situations around the world. I thank you.

I thank the representative of the Russian Federation, and now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Finland on behalf of Nordic countries.

Mr. President, I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Nordic countries: Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Finland. The Nordic countries deeply regret the use of veto by the Russian Federation in the Security Council on 30 October, preventing the renewal of the mandate for MINURSO. The draft resolution enjoyed broad support, with 11 Council members in favour of renewing the mandate. It is regrettable that some Security Council members would not engage in earnest negotiations. The use of veto undermines the confidence in the Security Council to deliver on its primary responsibility for maintaining peace and security. The failure to renew the mandate sets a dangerous precedent. The Council has, in the past decades, despite its differences, managed to find solutions when it comes to peacekeeping missions and special political missions mandates. As a result of this failure, the public trust in the UN, nations' peacekeeping as an instrument for international peace and security is hampered. Mr. President, since the establishment in '91, MINUSO has contributed to stability and security in the region. The Nordic countries pay tribute to the dedicated service of the MINUSA personnel and its leadership. The mission has worked to reduce tensions, to monitor the situation on the ground, and to support the ceasefire. No peacekeeping mission can be eternal, and UN peace operations must be regularly reviewed and adjusted. They must also evolve over time to reflect changing realities. The abrupt ending of the MINUSOS mandate risks a disorderly drawdown of the mission and leaves a gap in the region’s security arrangements. We call on the parties to respect the ceasefire, to exercise maximum restraint, and to uphold their commitments to maintaining peace and stability in the region, in accordance with the UN Security Council resolution 2797. We urge the parties to continue to engage in negotiations to achieve a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution to the dispute in accordance with the UN Charter. We express our support for continuing the political negotiations under the auspices of the United Nations. We also support the efforts of the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy, Staffan de Mistura, with a view of bringing the parties closer to a political solution that provides for the meaningful self-determination of the people of Western Sahara. We expect the Security Council to address the future of MINUSOH promptly and to remain seized of the situation in Western Sahara. Mr. President, The Nordic countries underline the significance of the veto initiative contained in the General Assembly resolution 76/62. The veto initiative is a vital tool for strengthening transparency and accountability, as well as reinforces the General Assembly's capacity to uphold the principles of the UN Charter when the Security Council is unable to act. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Finland on behalf of the Nordic countries, and now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the European Union on behalf of the EU and its member states.

Thank you, President. I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union's member states, the candidate countries North Macedonia, Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as San Marino, aligned themselves with this statement. The European Union regrets the veto cast by the Russian Federation that prevented the renewal of MINURSO’s mandate, effectively removing the only dedicated UN monitoring mechanisms for the 1991 ceasefire, a development that increases the risk of miscalculations and instability. For over three decades, MINURSO has served as an indispensable pillar of regional stability, playing a critical role in monitoring the ceasefire, mitigating tensions, and providing a vital pathway towards a peaceful and lasting political solution. The sudden dismantling of this mandate not only undermines multilateral peace efforts, but also causes an abrupt termination of the mission and sudden drawdown without an adequate transition period. The European Union reiterates that a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions remains essential. In this regard, The EU continues to support the UN-led political process, in line with the parameters set out by the Security Council in Resolution 2797, which expresses full support for the Secretary-General and his personal envoy in facilitating and conducting negotiations, taking as a basis Morocco’s autonomy proposal, with a view to achieving a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable resolution of the dispute consistent with the United Nations Charter, and welcomes any constructive suggestion by the parties in response to the autonomy proposal. The resolution calls upon the parties to engage in discussions without preconditions, with a view to achieving a final and mutually acceptable political solution that provides for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara. It recognizes that genuine autonomy could represent a most feasible outcome. and encourages the parties to submit ideas to support a final, mutually acceptable solution. The European Union thanks the UNSG and his PE for their valued and continued efforts, and expresses gratitude to MINUSO’s personnel. We underline the importance of continued dialogue, sustained engagement in good faith, and support for the UN framework to move the process forward. At the same time, The European Union calls on all parties to avoid escalation, ensure that any next steps are orderly, and continue to respect human rights and protect civilians. In the current context, restraint, responsibility, and a clear commitment to regional stability are of utmost importance. In closing, Mr. President, the European Union recalls its long-standing support for stability, dialogue, and cooperation in the region. and continues to encourage all parties to engage constructively in the political process. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the European Union, and now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bahrain on behalf of the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Mr. President, I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Member States of the Gulf Cooperation Council, namely the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Sultanate of Oman, the State of Qatar, the State of Kuwait, and my own country, the Kingdom of Bahrain. GCC states thank you for convening this meeting pursuant to General Assembly resolution 76/262, which established an important mechanism to enhance transparency and accountability regarding the use of veto in the Security Council. Mr. President, GCC states continue to follow with close attention developments relating to the Moroccan Sahara issue. We reaffirm the importance of continuing international efforts aimed at achieving a lasting political solution to this matter in a manner that contributes to strengthening security and stability in the region and supports opportunities for cooperation and development among its states. In this regard, the GCC states reiterate their firm position on the Moroccan Sahara issue and their support for the Moroccan autonomy initiative as the solution to the Moroccan Sahara question, consistent with the position affirmed by the High Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council and its final communique issued at its 46th session held in Kingdom of Bahrain in December 2025. The Council welcomed Security Council Resolution 2797 as an important step towards reaching a realistic and practical solution. Accordingly, the GCC states look forward to the continuation of diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution to this issue. one that enhances regional security and stability and opens broader prospects for cooperation, integration, development, and prosperity in the region. I would like to add the following remarks in my national capacity. The Kingdom of Bahrain voted in favor of the draft resolution, motivated by its desire to build upon the progress achieved through Security Council resolution 27/97, which constituted an important step in consolidating the Moroccan autonomy initiative as the basis for negotiations aimed at reaching a fair, mutually acceptable and lasting political solution to this issue. Second, the draft resolution reflected the results of the strategic review of the mandate of MINURSO. thus underscoring the importance of aligning the mission's tasks with political developments and realities on the ground, according to a realistic and pragmatic approach that supports reaching a lasting political solution. In this context, the Kingdom of Bahrain commends the commitment of the brotherly Kingdom of Morocco to the ceasefire and its efforts to preserve stability and maintain conditions conducive to the continuation of the political process. Bahrain further stresses the importance of adhering to the ceasefire and avoiding any actions that could escalate tensions or undermine ongoing political efforts, consistent with the observations of the Secretary-General in his most recent report on the importance of maintaining stability and creating favourable conditions for progress in the political process. Third, the Kingdom of Bahrain commends the commitment of the Kingdom of Morocco to facilitating the withdrawal of MINURSO in an orderly manner, while fully respecting the Mission’s privileges and immunities, reflecting Morocco’s commitment to cooperation with the UN. Fourth, the Kingdom reaffirms its steadfast position regarding the Moroccan Sahara and its full support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Morocco, as well as for the Moroccan autonomy initiative as a serious, credible, and realistic basis for achieving a just and lasting political solution within the framework of Morocco's sovereignty, thereby promoting security, stability, and prosperity in the region. Fifth, with regard to the protracted humanitarian situation of the inhabitants of the Tindouf camps, the Kingdom of Bahrain stresses the importance of strengthening cooperation between the UN High Commissioner for Refugees and his Office and the States concerned, and international partners in order to find sustainable solutions that safeguard their dignity, protect their rights, and respect their choices. Sixth, the Kingdom of Bahrain expresses its appreciation for the efforts undertaken by the United States in its capacity as penholder in facilitating the negotiations and in producing a balanced draft resolution that garnered broad support and could have represented an important step towards achieving a lasting political solution to this issue based on a realistic and pragmatic approach responsive to the requirements of security and stability in the region. Mr. President, in conclusion, the Kingdom of Bahrain welcomes the broad international support for the Moroccan autonomy initiative and the position supporting the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Morocco over the Sahara, reflecting the growing diplomatic momentum in favor of reaching a realistic and practical political solution to this issue. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the representative of Bahrain. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Liechtenstein.

Good morning, Mr. President. We thank you for convening today's debate, and our thanks also go to the Security Council for the provision of a special report in line with the terms of resolution 76/62. We appreciate the participation in today's debate by the Russian Federation to discuss the veto cast by their delegation on draft resolution S/2026/68. We look forward to receiving a summary of today's meeting to be sent to the Council for their reflection in line with resolution 79/327. Mr. President, I wish to begin with a quote by the International Court of Justice. and its advisory opinion on Western Sahara. I quote, "In short, the decolonization process to be accelerated, which is envisaged by the General Assembly in this provision, is one which will respect the right of the population of Western Sahara to determine their future political status by their own freely expressed will." In so opining, the Court brought clarification to the right of self-determination as one of the principles. upon which the UN Charter is based. Self-determination is often discussed in terms of its ends, for example, secession, independence, self-governance, or autonomy. But in the above quote, the Court rightfully focuses on the means. The right to self-determination fundamentally means that a people has the right to choose, to determine its own destiny. This is why We agreed in common article one of the Human Rights Covenants that it is by virtue of the right of self-determination that all peoples freely determine their political status. And this is why we all agreed in the friendly relations declaration that self-determination can be implemented by, I quote, any political status freely determined by people. 50 years later, it is the failure to fulfill this right for the people of Western Sahara that we must discuss today. The Council was clear-eyed about the situation in Western Sahara in its deliberations on the vetoed text. No Council member suggested that a referendum was at hand, and the penholder of the vetoed resolution, citing UN officials over many years, stated that a referendum was something that cannot be done. This being said, the veto proposal response to the situation By confusing the ends for the means, asserting a final status for the people of Western Sahara does not constitute the fulfillment of the right to self-determination when it does not ensure the ability of that people to freely determine its future political status. At the same time, the counter-proposal, which had the primary objective of rolling over the mandate of MINURSO, would also not have rectified the issue. Reasserting an intention to do something which is not possible also does not fulfill the purposes of the Charter. In the circumstances, we would have preferred a short-term rollover in order to work towards consensus on the Council, while it does appear that the political will to do so was not present. Unfortunately, as it stands, the UN and its membership and the Council have failed to uphold our own principles. and our own resolutions for the people of Western Sahara. The veto cast was not the cause, but the symptom of our collective failure. So, President, the UN's attempt to ensure the full implementation of the right to self-determination in Western Sahara has reached a turning point on October 30. Today, we have a collective responsibility in this body to focus on the way forward, one that does not ignore the reality of the situation on the ground, but that is faithful to the promises of the Charter and of international law. We must make good on our fundamental belief in the right of self-determination for all peoples and on our understanding that this requires peoples to be able to freely determine their own destiny. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Liechtenstein. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United States.

Thank you, Mr. President, colleagues. Good to be with you today. You know, when I served for 27 years in the United States military, we had a saying that guided much of what we did, and one of those sayings was, "Hope is not, hope is not a strategy for peace. Colleagues, for too many decades, the Western Sahara issue here at the United Nations has been dominated, frankly, by wishful thinking. We had hope that a referendum would somehow materialize, and hope that another year after year after year, approving the same mandate all those years would somehow then produce a different result. And it's exactly that brand and mantra of broken promises repackaged as hope that has kept this conflict frozen now for 50 years. But finally, Last year, with resolution 2797, the Security Council moved forward with a realistic and viable plan, and with it, a path to peace and flourishing for those who have become the brunt of this conflict. for generations. Last year's historic Resolution 2797 established Morocco's autonomy proposal as basis for negotiations to move forward. And moving forward, under President Trump's leadership, we got to work. We started talking about peace. We did so alongside the Secretary General's personal envoy, Staffan de Mistura. We had three rounds of high-level talks at the foreign ministry level, one in Madrid, two in Washington, D.C. We had the parties at the table for the first time in nearly a decade. We had observers, our friends in Algeria and Mauritania, at the table, and serious, detailed discussions about self-governance, about political representation, about resource sharing, about demobilization, about transition, about security, about international and constitutional guarantees, and real discussions about a pathway to peace. And then this year, the United States presented a resolution that would have extended MINUSO’s, the peacekeeping observation force’s mandate for another 12 months, while establishing Morocco's autonomy proposal as the basis for negotiations. 11 members of the Security Council supported it and voted for it. But sadly, on the last day, after this resolution had been out for weeks, multiple inputs, many edits, seeking everyone's views, gaining that support of 11 countries. Sadly, on the last day of negotiations, Russia vetoed it. And so I hope everyone listened carefully to our colleagues from Russia’s explanation today. There was a lot of talk about referendum. But here’s what your capitals and what I want all of you to know and everyone watching to know that cares deeply about this issue. As I reminded the Council this past month, Secretaries-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali and Kofi Annan, UN Personal Envoys James Baker and Peter van Wassaam, former MINURSO Chiefs Erik Jensen and Julian Harston, and former UN Peacekeeping Chief Bernard Miyet have all, all of them, multiple Secretaries-Generals, heads of MINURSO, UN personal envoys have all warned one way or another that the original referendum framework was impractical and unworkable and unachievable on the ground. No realistic prospect of implementation. That's not from us or any council member. That is from multiple officials across the UN space. They all said it was so unworkable and so unrealistic that MINURSO's own website testifies that it has not, not been preparing for a referendum for over two decades. MINURSO's website today says that they have not been preparing and doing what's necessary for a referendum for two decades. So, like many of you, of course, the United States supports the principle of self-determination. Our text explicitly recognized it. Twice. This current text that was just vetoed. But self-determination takes more than one form, and a referendum that can never be held serves no one. So when we hear cries about referendum, we need to see it for what it is. It's a cover. It's a fiction, unfortunately, in that form. that has perpetuated itself for decades, rather than doing what's necessary to deliver peace and exploring other forms. So consider what Russia offered instead. Russia called its own text a technical rollover, but it wasn't a rollover. It was a rollback. It actually moved us backwards from what 2797 did last year, and struck every single reference to the autonomy proposal. very proposal that this council endorsed as a basis for negotiations just one year ago. And how many countries supported that rollback? Just three. So, colleagues, we have to take a step back and remember who pays the price for such a position, because it's not anyone here. It's not the diplomats sitting in this chamber or back at our capitals. It's the Sarawee families who have spent 50 years languishing in refugee camps near Tindouf, who are already paying the price for this status quo and for the stasis. 20 years ago, Ban Ki-moon warned, 20 years ago, Ban Ki-moon warned that another generation risked growing up in those camps. Well, that generation has now Grown up in those camps, today tens of thousands of refugees remain there. Nearly two-thirds of children under five, two-thirds of children under five suffer from anemia. Only one in 10, 10%, receives a minimally acceptable diet. And as the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Barhim Saleh, told the Security Council just a few months ago, the status quo is, quote, untenable, unsustainable, and genuinely, truly humane. So the head of UNHCR says the current status quo is inhumane. And that, colleagues, is the status quo that unfortunately, this veto chose to preserve for the Tz’ruajui people instead of pursuing a plan for peace and a better future. Well, here's what I also want you to hear. The United States is not finished trying to resolve and lead this resolution, or lead this conflict to a meaningful resolution. We thank the observers and staff who served with MINURSO for 35 years. And again, under President Trump's leadership, we will continue working with the parties and with the United Nations towards a lasting settlement. We truly hope and aspire but not just hope, to put real plans in place to resolve this 50-year conflict. We support UNHCR's efforts to find durable solutions for the Sahrawi refugees. We welcome Morocco's commitment to maintain the ceasefire. We expect and call on the Polisario to do the same. The door to peace remains open to all parties and to all observers. And after 50 years of well wishes, speeches in this very hall, frankly, some broken promises, the Sahrawi people deserve better. They deserve peace, and we intend to deliver. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of the United States. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Morocco.

Mr. President, I would like to open my statement with a preliminary question. Why are we gathered here? Indeed, we are here because on 30 October, a veto was cast against a structural resolution that would have paved the way for a final settlement of the regional dispute over the Moroccan Sahara on the basis of the Moroccan autonomy initiative under Moroccan sovereignty. Despite this veto, the political weight of the resolution has resonated far beyond the Council. The 11 countries that voted in its favour sent the international community a loud and clear message: the status quo and deadlock are no longer acceptable. Quite simply, because a political solution is within reach. I am not going to go into the prospects of what this resolution that was vetoed was going to provide, because the ambassador, Mike Waltz, has just gone into detail about this. and in particular with all the things that were prevented from being implemented because of this veto. Nonetheless, Morocco has not come before you this morning neither to criticize nor to regret a veto, but to reaffirm an immutable historical reality: The Sahara was Moroccan before the 30th of October. It is even more Moroccan after the 30th of October, and it, Sahara, will remain Moroccan until the end of time. Mr. President, the veto is not the cause of the deadlock, or nor of the current impasse. It is the consequence thereof. As a Moroccan proverb says, The causes may be many, but the consequence is one, and the cause of the deadlock is the political attitude of one neighboring country, Algeria. When a deadlock lasts more than half a century, it's not fortuitous, it is a strategic political choice, it's a refusal to settle an issue, it is a deadlock that has an impact, it has stakeholders, it has a target. What I'm going to try and develop now is precisely this, through six Q and A's. that are going to leave no room for ambiguity on the primary responsibility of Algeria in perpetuating this regional dispute, but in particular, in prolonging the human crisis of the Tindouf camps, where 30,000 of our brothers and sisters Sahari have been suffering for 50 years. For my first question, why does Algeria fear autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty? Morocco has put a comprehensive and detailed autonomy plan on the table as the one and only basis for settling this dispute under the sovereignty of the Kingdom. Like it or not, This is the very status that the parties Algeria and the Polisario discussed in detail in Washington, in Madrid, and once again in Washington. All the elements of this status were discussed. Documents were drafted, understandings were not concluded, but areas of agreement were reached. Algeria proposed to resolve DDR with a bilateral agreement with the United Nations. Autonomy and self-determination share a common root, auto in Latin, which means self. to determine oneself, to manage oneself, to govern oneself, to administer oneself. And this is what this autonomy status has provided and continues to provide. Autonomy is self-determination in action. The second question, why does Algeria refuse to accept its status as a party, as a stakeholder? Quite simply because accepting it would mean admitting that the key to the deadlock lies in Algiers. An observer, like Algeria claims to be, does not propose the partition of a territory in disregard of those very population it claims to defend. An observer does not break a 35-year practice by forcing its way into the Security Council meeting of the 30th of October 2026 to witness the veto and to lay out its position. An observer does not threaten the member states of the Security Council with withdrawing from the political process if they vote in favor of the US penholder resolution. As for the Polisario, everything it has is on loan: the camps, the Tindouf camps on Algerian soil, with sovereignty over the territory, the soil of a sovereign state, the weapons, the financial resources, and the diplomatic campaigning and backing. When the Polisario says no in the press, they don't say no in the sessions in Madrid and Washington, when the Polisario says no, it's Algiers we hear. Algiers does not observe this dispute, it orchestrates it. My third question: why does Algeria cling to the "r" in Manourso? Because that "r" is the last alibi for the status quo. And I would like to thank Ambassador Mike Waltz for having developed all the ins and outs that really led to the abandonment, really, of the successive Secretary Generals and the personal envoys. And I'd like to reiterate that as early as 2000, former Secretary General Kofi Annan acknowledged that the referendum had reached a dead end. The Council has since removed it from the vocabulary of its resolutions, which have not invoked it for two decades. The R, this famous R for referendum, no longer stands for referendum. It stands for refusal, the refusal of a final settlement of this dispute. Why has Algeria, fourth question, opposed the registration of the population of the Tindouf camps for half a century? Quite simply, because to count is to be held to account for the figures that nobody in the world knows. Even the UNHCR doesn't know exactly how many people there are, neither do UN agencies. held account for the diversion of humanitarian aid, confirmed by the report of the UNHCR and others, and for violations of the most basic human rights, also confirmed by the closure of the camps, by the refusal of allowing the special procedures of the HRC to go to the camp. So closing the doors to that camp. A refugee who's not registered is a refugee who does not count. Why, fifth question, does Algeria reject durable solutions? Because quite simply, Algeria fears that the Tinduf camps, with the voluntary chosen departure of the refugees, will be returned to the motherland, Morocco. Or they would be repatriated, I don't think Algeria would allow them to be, or they would choose a third country, another destination. No refugee situation is meant to last forever, unless it has become a diplomatic stock in trade. Four generations have been born under tents and in the heat waves, the scorching heat of Tindouf. They were born refugees, they live as refugees, they might even die as refugees in the Tindouf camp. This humanitarian tragedy has lasted half a century and Algeria bears the political responsibility for it. Everywhere else in the world, a camp is a place of passage. In Tindouf, it has become a place of hostage taking. Sixth question. Why does Algeria fear the broadening of the personal envoys consultations to the Sahrawi populations of the southern provinces, to the Sahrawi diaspora, and to those excluded in the Tinduf camps? Because quite simply, such consultations would bring an end to the capture of the representation of the people of the Moroccan Sahara by an armed separatist group. In the southern provinces, Sahrawis vote and freely make their own political choices. They choose their socio choices, they have electoral freedom in Tinduf. Others make those choices for them. Mr. President, the answer to the question of why we are gathered here comes down to four truths. The first, a veto can end a mandate. But it will change neither history nor Morocco's sovereignty over its Sahara. The second truth, six questions, one answer. The comprehensive and detailed autonomy plan under Moroccan sovereignty, presented to and discussed in detail with the other parties in Washington and Madrid, remains the one and only solution for the final settlement of this dispute. Third, truth. Two parties have stood face to face in Washington, in Madrid, and in New York recently at the Security Council. They were seated to the left and the right, Morocco and Algeria. So, Morocco at that time take and does indeed take responsibility and Algeria evades it. The fourth truth, the deadlock lies neither in Rabat, which has honored all of its commitments, nor in New York, here, where it tried. everything, in particular by the US penholder, right up until the last minute, within the Security Council chamber, just one or two minutes before the opening of the Security Council meeting, in vain. No, nothing. The deadlock lies with Algiers, which unfortunately has rejected and refused everything. I thank you very much indeed, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Morocco, and now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Namibia.

Thank you, Mr. President. My delegation takes the floor today under agenda item 62, in accordance with the General Assembly resolution 76/262. We do so not to celebrate procedure, but to express profound concern over the failure of the Security Council that has left the people of Western Sahara, the last remaining colony in Africa, without a United Nations presence for the first time in 35 years. Mr. President, on 30th October 2026, at its 10,000th 260th meeting, the Security Council failed to renew the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara, MINUSO. The Council was presented with two competing drafts. The first, tabled by the United States, is penholder. received 11 votes in favour, one against, and three abstentions. It was blocked by a veto cast by the Russian Federation. The second, tabled by the Russian Federation, proposing a straightforward technical rollover of MINUSO for one year, received three votes in favor, one against, and 11 abstentions, and was blocked by a veto by the United States. The result: MINUSROW’s mandate expired on 31 October 2026. A mission created in 1991 by resolution 690 to monitor the ceasefire and organize a referendum on self-determination has been allowed to lapse. Namibia deeply regrets that the first draft for status sought to erase the word “referendum” from the mission’s name, and rename it MINUSO. Erase the referendum, erase the right, erase the word, erase the people. Second, it sought to impose autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty as the only basis for negotiations. That is not negotiation. That is dictation. That is a colonial settlement imposed on a non-self-governing territory without the consent of its people. Third, it sought to gut the mission's military component, silence the ceasefire monitoring, and leave the Sahrawi people defenseless while rewarding the occupying power. This is illegal. This is immoral. This is a flagrant violation of the United Nations Charter, of Resolution 1514, of Resolution 1541, and of every resolution this Assembly has adopted on Western Sahara since 1966. Namibia, therefore, deeply regrets the path that the Council sought to take. To do so would be to abandon the very promise the United Nations made to the Sahrawi people in 1991. It would be to prejudge sovereignty, to deny self-determination, and to rewrite the decolonization mandate of this organization. Namibia therefore welcomes the veto that stopped that draft. The veto in this instance prevented the Council from legitimizing annexation. At the same time, Namibia regrets that the Council could not agree on a simple technical extension that would have preserved MINUSO while allowing time for genuine, inclusive negotiations. The Council's inability to compromise has left civilians, ceasefire monitoring, and humanitarian access in limbo. Let us be clear about the principles at stake. First, self-determination. The International Court of Justice, in its advisory opinion of 16 October 1975, found no legal ties of territorial sovereignty between Western Sahara and Morocco or Mauritania that could preclude the application of Resolution 1514. Despite support for the US-led resolution, we welcome the principled stance of two Security Council members, Denmark and Latvia, not to recognize any sovereignty claims of Morocco. over the territory of Western Sahara, a position that we hope all European countries and indeed all Member States will support and defend, because all Member States are under obligation to abide by international law and in this regard, the 1975 ruling of the ICJ. Just last week, Both the Council and the United Nations General Assembly elected new judges to the ICJ, which speaks volumes of the ICJ's importance and esteem. Prior to that, a debate was held in this very august house, considering the annual report of the ICJ, and most member states spoke in favor of the ICJ. Therefore, we cannot play double standards to advance the ICJ, but yet disregard its rulings. Second, decolonization. Western Sahara remains on the list of non-self-governing territories. It is a question for the Fourth Committee and the Special Committee on Decolonization, not a bilateral territorial dispute to be settled by fait accompli. Through resolution, 1514, and other relevant UN resolutions, including United Nations Security Council Resolution 690 that established MINUSO. The UN has maintained that decolonization must be completed slowly through the freely expressed will of the Sahrawi people, and never through political expediency or unilateral reinterpretations of the established UN mandates. The Sahrawi people have an inalienable right to self-determination, including independence, to be exercised through a free and fair referendum. Third, African solidarity. The African Union has consistently affirmed that Western Sahara is a member state of the AU. the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, and that a just, lasting solution must be in accordance with the AU principles and UN resolutions. Western Sahara is not a province. It is not a dispute between neighbors. It is Africa's last colony. It remains on the list of non-self-governing territories The Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic is a founding member state of the African Union. Its people have the inalienable right to choose, including the right to independence through a fair and internationally supervised referendum. No great power, no council, can take that right away by deleting the word from a mandate. Mr. President, Namibia is not here to defend a veto. Namibia is here to defend a people. Namibia knows occupation very well. We lived under colonialism and apartheid over 100 years before our independence. We were told The world was tired of Namibia. We were told to accept Bantustans. We were told to accept autonomy under Pretoria. We refused. And the United Nations stood with us under the banner of the United Nations Transition Assistance Group, UNTAC, with a referendum, with freedom. Today, Namibia asks, where is the United Nations for Western Sahara? The misuse of penholder ship and of the veto further underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reform of the Security Council, particularly when such use obstructs the implementation of international law. We will not be silent while the Council tries to bury the Sahrawi caused under the rebel of MINUSO. We will call upon the Secret Council to refrain from imposing any solution that prejudges the outcome of the negotiations or denies the Sahrawi people their right to choose. Ensure resumption of the direct negotiations between the Kingdom of Morocco and the Frente Polisario under the auspices of the Secretary General's personal envoy, without preconditions and in good faith, and guarantee a full protection of human rights in occupied territory. Mr. President, to those who say the referendum is unrealistic, Namibia replies: What is unrealistic is to believe that 50 years of occupation will produce peace. What is unrealistic is to believe that a people who have resisted for half a century will surrender because the Council deleted a word. The Sahrawi people will not despair, and Namibia will continue to stand with the people of Western Sahara until they too can freely determine their future, and we ask this august Assembly to play its role under your able leadership, Mr. President, to lead the way where the Council has failed in full respect to the principles of the United Nations Charter, to work towards bringing a conclusion to this long-standing issue of decolonization. Namibia further calls upon all parties to refrain from actions that may increase tension, to preserve the ceasefire, engage constructively with the United Nations process, in support the effort of the Secretary-General and his personal envoy in pursuit of a peaceful, inclusive, and sustainable political solution. We want to reiterate that the interest, aspirations, and rights of the Sahrawi people must remain at the center of all efforts aimed at resolving this question. The people of Western Sahara have waited for more than three decades for the implementation of commitments made by the United Nations. They should not now be asked to relinquish their rights that have been repeatedly affirmed by the organization itself. On November 1st, the UN Secretary General underscored that the departure of MINUSO does not abrogate the inalienable rights of the Sahrawi. We must therefore collectively ensure that the decolonization process is firmly anchored in the right of the people to self-determination and the decisions already adopted by this organization. I thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Namibia, and now I give the floor the distinguished representative of South Africa.

Thank you, Mr. President. President, we convene today pursuant to UNGA Resolution 76/262, affording all Member States an opportunity to express our views on the veto cast on 30 October 2026 during consideration the agenda item on the situation in Western Sahara. At the outset, Mr. President, South Africa reaffirms its commitment to international law, as well as the UN Charter, including the principles contained therein, in particular self-determination and the peaceful settlement of disputes. We were thus hopeful that the Security Council would continue to pursue diplomatic engagements to arrive at a just and mutually agreeable solution to the question of Western Sahara. However, South Africa is deeply disappointed that the Security Council collectively failed to renew the mandate of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara. While today we consider the specific case of the use of the veto, it must be emphasized that this accounted for only half of what transpired in the Council on 30 October. And the veto was used to block a draft resolution that was clearly imbalanced and one-sided, and aimed at undoing decades of understanding of the role of MINUSO. in resolving the last remaining decolonization matter on the African continent and ensuring the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara. No Security Council member has the right to cede the territory of Western Sahara to another State, thereby imposing upon the people of Western Sahara a solution that undermines their inalienable right to self-determination. It was not surprising, therefore, that the international community, including human rights experts and academia, among others, was alarmed at the Council's failure in this regard. If the resolution in question had been adopted, it would have undermined the rulings of the International Court of Justice, which has a mandate to pronounce on such issues, and had already done so in 1975. Although it was not ideal, but necessary, South Africa believes that the veto ultimately prevented the undermining of international law and helped maintain trust in the multilateral system that is increasingly challenged by attempts to impose dominance and non-inclusive approaches. Furthermore, Such action would have created dangerous precedent with unintended or catastrophic consequences for the rest of the non-self-governing territories whose situations are under consideration by the United Nations. More concerning than the use of the veto was the collective failure of the Security Council to merely renew the mandate of MINUSO without alterations, thus ensuring its fundamental role in the stability of the Territory and its life-saving role, such as it relates to demining. This would have afforded the membership of the Council time to find common ground through a technical rollover. It is deeply troubling that the Council was unable to achieve majority support for such an approach. rather than undermining international law, true multilateralism, and the principle of self-determination. President, South Africa is disappointed that despite declaring their commitment to and advocating respect for the promotion and protection of human rights, humanitarian support, the right to self-determination, and general support for MINUSAH’s role in this regard, many Council members failed to support the continued presence of MINUSO. When the opportunity was presented to renew the mandate of MINUSO, as contained in Security Council resolution 2797, their declarations rang hollow, as they failed to muster the courage to support the technical rollover resolution, presumably due to biases against its author. We therefore question the commitment to human rights, humanitarian principles, and the principle of self-determination by these members. In view of the process of withdrawal of MINUSCHO and that has resulted from the Council's failure in renewing its mandate, we call upon the UN to ensure the safe and orderly withdrawal of the mission from Western Sahara and to prevent security gaps and regression in the security stability of the region. Finally, President, despite the failed mandate renewal of MINUSCO, the United Nations must retain its presence and support the parties towards upholding the principle of self-determination so that the Sarawaki people can take control of their own destiny. This is their fundamental right under international law. South Africa will remain steadfast in solidarity with the people of Western Sahara regarding their inalienable right to self-determination and encourage a continued UN presence and central role to ensure a just, inclusive, and lasting solution to the situation in Western Sahara. Ultimately, the decolonization matter of Western Sahara can only be resolved through direct talks between Morocco and the Polisario Front, and cannot be resolved through a non-inclusive peace process with preconditions for negotiations. Furthermore, we welcome and concur with the statement by the Secretary-General underscoring that the departure of MINUSCO does not abrogate the inalienable rights of the people of Western Sahara. and calling upon all parties to respect and promote their rights accordingly. It is our hope that members of the Security Council will recommit to the peaceful resolution of conflict and exhaust all diplomatic tools in a quest to reach a just, lasting, and mutually agreeable solution to the question of Western Sahara, the last colony in Africa. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of South Africa, and now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Timor-Leste.

Mr. President, Timor-Leste thanks you for convening this meeting pursuant to General Assembly resolution 76/262. We take note of the Security Council's special report concerning the exercise of the veto on 30 October 2026, during its consideration of the question of Western Sahara. Mr. President, Western Sahara remains on the United Nations list of non-self-governing territories. The Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination must remain central to efforts towards a just and lasting settlement. In this context, Timor-Leste shares the serious concerns raised regarding provisions of the draft resolution considered by the Security Council. These provisions would have established the autonomy proposal as the exclusive basis for negotiations and removed the reference to the referendum from MINUSU’s name. Although the draft retained reference to self-determination, such changes raised important questions about whether the Sharaa people would retain a genuine opportunity to determine their political future freely, without being confined to a predetermined political outcome. For my delegation, the difficulties encountered in implementing the original settlement plan cannot diminish this fundamental right. Any political settlement must reflect the freely expressed will of the Sahrawi people, without prejudging the territory's final status. We also recall that Western Sahara continues to be considered as a question of decolonization by the General Assembly, including through its Fourth Committee and the Special Committee on Decolonization. While the Security Council has an important responsibility for international peace and security, its efforts should complement the established United Nations decolonization framework. Predetermining the political status of a non-self-governing territory without the freely expressed will of its people could set a troubling precedent for other territories whose decolonization remains incomplete. Mr. President, at the same time, Timor-Leste considers it important to preserve the United Nations’ capacity to monitor developments in Western Sahara and support efforts towards a peaceful settlement that upholds the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination. Timor-Leste supports the continued efforts of the Secretary General and his Personal Envoy to facilitate meaningful dialogue between the parties aimed at achieving a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution consistent with international law. The involvement of Morocco and Frente Polisario continues to be essential in this regard. We also underlined the importance of sustained humanitarian assistance to Sahrawi refugees. Mr. President, The outcome of the Security Council’s deliberations underscores the need for continued engagement grounded in the Charter and relevant United Nations resolutions. For Timor-Leste, the central consideration remains clear: the future of Western Sahara must ultimately reflect the freely expressed will of its people. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Timor-Leste. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom.

President, the United Kingdom regrets that the resolution renewing the mandate for the UN mission in Western Sahara was vetoed by Russia. That veto terminated the mandate of the mission at short notice. It undermined the Council discharging its responsibility. and it risks setting back progress towards a political solution to the question of Western Sahara. As a result, MINUSO has now entered liquidation, and with it, the wider region has entered a new period of increased uncertainty and risk. The draft resolution received the support of 11 Council members. It reflected a clear commitment to ensuring a just, lasting and mutually agreed solution to the question of Western Sahara that meaningfully provides for self-determination in accordance with the principles and purpose of the UN Charter. Stability, regional security, and the interests of the affected populations should remain a shared priority. The use of the veto should not stand in the way of progress towards a negotiated political settlement. To that end, the United Kingdom continues to consider Morocco's 2007 autonomy proposal the most credible, viable, and pragmatic basis for a lasting resolution of the dispute. We support substantive negotiations on that basis, while maintaining that the eventual solution must meaningfully provide for self-determination. We continue to urge all parties and Council members to work constructively towards reaching such a solution. including by cooperating fully with the Secretary General on the withdrawal and liquidation of MONUSO. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malta.

Mr. President, Malta aligns with the statement delivered by the European Union and thanks you for convening this debate under resolution 76/262, which ensures every use of the veto is accounted

before the whole membership.

Malta regrets the use of the veto to a resolution that would have renewed MINURSO's mandate. After 35 years, a mission that monitored the ceasefire and contributed to stability in Western Sahara has lapsed, not

through a deliberate Council-agreed decision, but through deadlock.

Peace operations should be drawn down and transitioned out

in an orderly, planned manner, with clear timelines, the protection of civilians and personnel, and continuity of essential functions.

In this case,

The mission's mandate suddenly ended because of Security Council's disagreement, while the dispute remains unresolved. An abrupt liquidation by default serves neither the parties nor the people of the region, and sets a troubling precedent for how the Council discharges its responsibilities. Precedent.

As highlighted

by the United Nations Secretary General, the loss of MINURSO's ceasefire monitoring and stabilizing presence risks creating a security vacuum. and increases the prospect of renewed escalation. Any renewed tensions in Western Sahara could have far-reaching repercussions on regional stability, including in the wider Mediterranean, while compounding further uncertainty to the security environment and potentially undermining efforts towards lasting peace and stability. Malta will continue to support the UN-led process and the efforts of the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General, Mr. Staffan de Mistura, towards a just, realistic, pragmatic, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution based on compromise and in accordance with the Security Council framework, including Resolution 2797. We call on all parties to exercise restraint, avoid any escalation, and engage constructively and in good faith.

The end of a mission must not mean the end of UN engagement.

Continued engagement, confidence-building measures, and support for the United Nations process remain the best means of reaching a sustainable solution. We urge Council members to find common ground to ensure an orderly drawdown and sustained support for the political process. The people of Western Sahara deserve sustained international engagement and a credible path towards a peaceful, just, and lasting political solution.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Malta. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Guatemala.

Mr. President, Guatemala welcomes the convening of this debate pursuant to resolution 76/262, which provides us with an opportunity to examine the implications of the veto cast on the 30th of October, which prevented the adoption of a resolution concerning the extension of the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara. This development underscores the relevance of this mechanism and the collective responsibility of Member States to examine the consequences of the lack of consensus within the Security Council. The initiative submitted for the Council's consideration sought to adapt MINUSO's mandate to the current realities on the ground, recognize that maintaining the status quo is no longer a sustainable option, and reaffirmed the need to move towards a definitive political solution based on a serious, credible and realistic proposal. The inability to adopt a decision must not result in the paralysis of efforts aimed at achieving a practical, realistic and lasting political solution. Guatemala believes that such a solution must be grounded in respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Morocco, as well as recognition of the efforts undertaken by that country to achieve a mutually acceptable political settlement. In this context, we reiterate our support for the autonomy initiative presented by Morocco in 2007, which we consider a serious, credible, and realistic proposal for advancing towards a definitive political solution. We also underscore the importance of Security Council resolution 2797 of 2025, which recognized the value of this initiative within the United Nations-led political process. We believe that the progress achieved in recent years and the political momentum generated around this proposal must not be undermined by the difficulties that have recently arisen within the Security Council. On the contrary, the international community must preserve the political process and create the necessary conditions for achieving concrete progress. Mr. President, Guatemala recognizes MINURSO's contribution to maintaining stability on the ground and welcomes Morocco's expressed commitment to upholding the ceasefire and continuing its cooperation with the United Nations. We also fully support the efforts of the Secretary General and his personal envoy, Mr. Staffan de Mistura, to facilitate dialogue between the parties and advance towards a definitive solution. For Guatemala, multilateralism demonstrates its true value when it is capable of creating the conditions to overcome differences and build consensus. This debate provides an opportunity to reaffirm that commitment and sustain the diplomatic momentum towards achieving a peaceful, realistic, and lasting solution to the question of Western Sahara. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Guatemala. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Switzerland.

Mr.

President, Switzerland regrets that the members of the Security Council were unable to reach agreement on the future of MINUSO. The veto cast against the U.S.-drafted resolution and the failure of the Russian draft resolution led to the abrupt end of the mission. Peacekeeping operations are one of the principal instruments for the maintenance of international peace and security. Switzerland particularly regrets that MINUSAH’s operations have come to an end without any arrangement having been agreed to preserve the mission’s achievements, to which Switzerland has contributed. Since its establishment in 1991, MINURSO has played a central role in preventing conflict and monitoring the ceasefire. The end of its mandate carries the risk of a security vacuum and renewed instability in the region. We call on all concerned parties to exercise the utmost restraint and to refrain from any action that could increase tensions or undermine regional stability. Respect for the ceasefire remains essential. MINUSO was established to enable the people of Western Sahara to exercise their right to self-determination. Its departure does not call that right into question. Likewise, the end of Minurso’s presence does not bring the dispute over Western Sahara to an end. Switzerland reiterates its full support for the efforts of the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy and the United Nations. The objective must remain a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution, in accordance with international law and the relevant Security Council resolutions. As stated in resolution 27/97, genuine autonomy could represent a most feasible solution, and negotiations alone can lead to such an outcome. The United Nations has an essential role to play in guiding and facilitating the negotiations. Mr. President, We call on the members of the Security Council to demonstrate the responsibility and political will necessary to enable the Council to fully discharge the mandate entrusted to it under the Charter. This requires conducting negotiations in a spirit of good faith, dialogue, and compromise. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Switzerland. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Algeria.

Thank you, Mr. President. Today's debate is not a mere procedural formality. It touched the heart of the conflict over Western Sahara. Its goals also go beyond these issues, as the credibility and the honor of our organization were seriously tested on Friday, 30 October. Allow me in this regard to put forward the following perspectives. First, MINUSO was established in the framework of an agreed and signed settlement plan, coupled with a ceasefire agreement, to organize a referendum for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara. In the course of the past 35 years, the Security Council upheld clear parameters for the peaceful, just, lasting and mutually acceptable solution which will provide for the self-determination. of the people of Western Sahara, taking duly into account the fundamental fact that Western Sahara is an achieved decolonization matter. These parameters were seriously tested by the vetoed draft resolution. And most striking, instead of seriously discussing this issue and tackling the reasons for the non-implementation of the mandate of MINURSO during 35 years, the aim of the draft resolution was simply to turn their backs on the failure of the Security Council and the international community. It’s a failure to fully implement a mandate that the Council has established. It’s a failure of the penholder, a failure of the Council, and a failure of the international community. Second, as a neighbor, as a host of Sahrawi refugees for five decades, and as a UN member, Algeria has warned that any peace process and unfair outcome not only lead to nowhere, but will undo past realization, torpedo the present endeavors, and doom the future to failure. And yet, the veto draft resolution would, had it been adopted, rubber stamp a clear and dangerous deviation from the established parameters for the settlement of the conflict of Western Sahara. It would have put at stake the integrity of the entire UN collective security architecture, the bedrock of the UN doctrine on decolonization, the very UN credibility and honor, the survival of the political process, and the negotiated, mutually acceptable solution. And finally, trigger dangerous consequences for such precedent, not only for our region, but for many other regions. For all these reasons, the last veto doesn't stem from a vacuum. It was a blessing in disguise. Third, what's next? The question of Western Sahara remains a decolonization issue. As long as the people of Western Sahara have not been allowed to determine freely its destiny, the United Nations continues to bear the responsibility of upholding the Charter and implementing the relevant resolutions, especially the resolution 1514. Allow me to quote the statement of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. made on 1st November: “MINUSO was established to protect and serve the people of Western Sahara, in particular to allow them to realize the inalienable right to self-determination. The Secretary-General underscores that the departure of MINUSO does not abrogate this inalienable right and calls upon all parties to respect and promote the rights of the people of Western Sahara.” Furthermore, And according to established rules and procedures, the question remains also in the agenda of Security Council as a peace and security issue. Hence, the non-renewal of the mandate of MINUSO doesn't absolve the Security Council from discharging its responsibilities towards this conflict. Fourth, today's debate is a crucial moment to record the importance of a responsible penholder. as well as the duty of distance himself from its own national position. This honour of taking the pen has to be earned, it's not a care branch. Equally important is the fairness required from mediator, so as everyone can trust. The nascent hope since the three rounds of talks in the beginning of this year on Western Sahara should have been given more space and more time. My country, Algeria, has participated as observers in these talks, in good faith and constructively. Despite all the warnings from the consequences of biased process, we were not heard. Make no mistake, any predetermined outcome, rushed approach, or quick fix modus operandi are the recipe for failure. It's our belief that diplomacy can deliver. It's our conviction that diplomacy must prevail. For it to succeed, the right path is already charted by the UN Charter, international law, and the relevant UN resolution on Western Sahara. Deviation, adventurism, bias, indecent transactional retribution, and colonial fait accompli rewarding all must be repudiated. To conclude, Algeria will not be complicit in any endeavor that deviates from the UN doctrine of decolonization, from the established parameters of the political process for a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable solution that provides for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Algeria. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of China.

President, on October 30th, China abstained from the vote on the U.S.-drafted Security Council resolution on the extension of MINUSO’s mandate. and voted in favor of the Russian draft resolution. China always takes an objective and impartial position on the Western Sahara issue. Let me make four points. First, MINUSO's contributions should be fully recognized. Since its deployment more than three decades ago, MINUSO has played an important role in maintaining overall stability on the ground, preventing deterioration of the situation, and protecting civilians, thereby creating favorable conditions for advancing a political solution to the Western Sahara issue. China commends the diligent efforts of all MINUSO personnel, including SRSG Ivanco. I note that the relevant parties have indicated their cooperation to ensure the smooth withdrawal of MINURSO. China hopes that all parties will strengthen communication and coordination to ensure that MINURSO will withdraw in a safe, orderly, and dignified manner. Second, the fundamental interests of the Western Sahara people must be fully safeguarded. The long-standing unresolved issue of Western Sahara has severely affected the well-being of the local population and regional peace and stability. The final settlement of the Western Sahara issue should be people-centered and should fully take into account its historical context, current realities, and legitimate demands, and effectively safeguard the legitimate rights and development interests of the Western Saharan people. The parties concerned should exercise restraint, cease hostilities, and avoid resorting to the use of force, which would worsen the situation. The international community should continue providing humanitarian assistance to the Western Sahari refugees. Third, the purposes and principles of the UN Charter must be fully respected. The UN Charter serves as the fundamental guide for resolving international disputes. China supports the relevant parties upholding the UN's role as the primary mediator. taking the purposes and principles of the UN Charter as the fundamental guide, and seeking a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution through equal-footed consultation within the framework of relevant UN resolutions and international law, so as to guarantee the right of the Western Sahara people to self-determination under arrangements consistent with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. The international community should jointly maintain the UN's impartiality and authority in promoting the settlement of the Western Sahara issue, and should provide support for advancing a political solution. Fourth, the role of dialogue and negotiation should be fully leveraged. The political process on Western Sahara should be advanced through dialogue and negotiation on equal footing, rather than by imposing solutions or rushing for quick results. The parties concerned should maintain strategic patience, act in good faith, and work to resolve differences, enhance mutual trust, and build consensus. The SG's personal envoy and other mediators should play an impartial and active role in this regard, creating enabling conditions for the parties to engage in dialogue. President, China will be guided by President Xi Jinping's four principles for the constructive participation of all parties in the settlement of African hotspot issues, namely taking an African-led and African-owned approach, upholding fairness and justice, promoting cessation of hostilities for peace, and addressing both symptoms and root causes. Together with all parties, China will contribute to advancing an early and proper settlement of the Western Sahara issue, safeguarding the well-being of the Western Sahara people and maintaining regional peace and stability. Thank you, President.

I thank the distinguished representative of China. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Australia.

President, thank you for convening this debate following the use of the veto in the Security Council.

The standing mandate for a General Assembly debate when a veto is cast is an important transparency and accountability measure. Australia continues to support these debates in line with resolution 76/262.

This reflects Australia's firm commitment to improving the Security Council's credibility and capacity to uphold international peace and security.

We also reiterate that we would like to see the Security Council's annual report contain substantive analysis of the occasions on which the veto has been used.

Over the reporting period.

This would help ensure that the wider UN membership can engage meaningfully when a veto is used and deter its future use.

President, the use of the veto in this instance is particularly regrettable, given the sudden and unforeseen consequences. UN peace operations are an essential instrument in the service of peace, including in Western Sahara.

As outlined in the Pact for the Future.

Exit strategies and transitions from peace operations should be planned, integrated, and iterative to ensure gains are consolidated.

The consequences of abrupt withdrawal can be severe.

Australia emphasises the importance of an orderly and safe drawdown and withdrawal of MINUSO and its personnel.

As peacekeeping operations transition, we must protect hard-won gains by supporting and investing in peacebuilding to prevent the resurgence of conflict.

Australia welcomes the Secretary-General's assurance to continue supporting efforts to advance dialogue and pursue peace.

The UN plays a vital role in facilitating dialogue, mediation, and confidence-building measures to prevent disputes.

From escalating into conflict, and in the transition from tensions to peace.

President, Australia underscores the responsibility of Security Council members to work constructively across divides. support preventative diplomacy, and enable the Council to fulfil its primary responsibility for international peace and security. As a candidate for the Security Council for 2029-30, Australia is committed to doing just that.

Working in partnership with all member states to prevent conflict, strengthen UN mediation, and help build and sustain peace.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Australia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Portugal.

Mr. President, Portugal aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union and wishes to add the following remarks in its national capacity. Portugal advocates an increase of transparency in the Security Council's use of the veto. We reaffirm our strong support for the General Assembly as a forum for constructive scrutiny and active engagement by the wider membership on this matter. Five vetoes on three different resolutions have already been cast in 2026, compared with four throughout 2025. This continued recourse to the veto should concern us all. Each time it prevents the Council from acting, it affects not only a particular decision, but also the credibility and effectiveness of the Council itself. Portugal therefore continues to support initiatives that promote responsibility in the use of the veto, including the Act Code of Conduct, the Veto Initiative, and the Franco-Mexican Declaration. Once again, the use of the veto hindered the ability of the Security Council to act. Mr. President, As for the situation concerning Western Sahara, Portugal recognizes the central role of MINURSO in helping to monitor the ceasefire for the past 35 years. We particularly regret that after such a long-standing presence, its mandate came to an abrupt end without the benefit of a previously agreed, planned, and orderly transition. Now that the mission begins its liquidation period, full cooperation of the parties involved is needed. The drawdown of the mission must be completed in a safe and orderly manner. The end of MINUSO must not, however, mean the end of the political process. Portugal commends and fully supports the role and efforts of the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General, Staffan de Mistura, to promote dialogue and advance negotiations. The political momentum generated earlier this year should be taken forward without delay. Thus, we encourage all parties to continue engaging without preconditions towards a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution in the framework of the United Nations and in accordance with relevant Security Council resolutions, and taking as a basis Morocco's autonomy proposal, which we view as the most serious, credible, and constructive option for the resolution of this dispute. Mr. President, Portugal has been a long-standing advocate of a stronger relationship between the Security Council and the General Assembly. During our term in the Security Council, we intend to continue to do so. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Portugal. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Equatorial Guinea.

Mr. President, my delegation would like to thank you for convening this meeting as part of the follow-up mechanism following a veto established by this General Assembly in resolution 76/262. a mechanism that responds to a simple belief, namely that the exercise of the power of veto, although it is legitimate and enshrined in the UN Charter, does not remove the need for the Council to provide accountability. And that's why this session is so important. Mr. President, allow me to begin by saying that, as is known, on the 30th of October this year, the Security Council did not adopt any of the draft resolutions submitted to it for consideration on the renewal of the mandate for MINUSO, both of them being vetoed by two permanent members. And therefore, this led to the expiry of MINUSO's mandate. after the 31st of October. That has had its consequences and has now created a legal and operational vacuum that is unprecedented. Today, we're talking about a mission that is drawing down, and really the only monitoring mechanism of the UN is being dismantled. with regard to one of the longest standing referendums in the world. This has led to problems for, legal problems for contributing countries and this activation mechanism for a mechanism that is so necessary at the moment. President, the use of the veto is an anomaly that has been criticized very much by so many members because it's considered to be unjust and anti-democratic, because it gives the impression that those that can wield the veto are not fully fulfilling their duties to maintain international peace and security. The veto prerogative is a trust responsibility on behalf of the 193 Member States that have given to the five permanent members the duty of maintaining international peace and security. And if this is not used properly, then the views of the 193 members, and particularly the 10 non-permanent members, are not being respected. And also, the sovereignty of peoples is being subordinated to individual national interests in these cases. This is not an abstract criticism. Every time the veto is used improperly, it paralyzes the work of the Council, and therefore, it leaves vulnerable populations without protection and support, and therefore, and also affects the credibility of the entire UN system. Mr. President, this fact is really paradoxical. Two permanent members that are not African have decided on the future of a mission on the African continent. And this is something that we have been criticizing for years, and that there needs to be a reformed Security Council that is balanced and regionally represented. as is stated in the Asuani Consensus and also in the Tripoli document adopted a few weeks ago. On the basis of those instruments, Africa is asking for two permanent seats with all prerogatives, including the veto, if the veto is maintained, plus non-permanent seats. Our continent needs to have a voice and express its voice with regard to events happening on our continent, and as we know, African issues occupy more than 70% of the Council's agenda. There are very many regional dimensions to this issue that affect neighboring countries, and the consequences fall on the African people. However, what happened on the 30th of October shows that the issue is being discussed in the Security Council by members that are not a part of that region. It's not a technical difficulty. It is a historical anomaly that continues to lead to the marginalization of the African continent with regard to decisions that affect its future. President, with regard to the question of Western Sahara, the Republic of Equatorial Guinea repeats our position to support the work of the Special Envoy of the Secretary General, Mr. Staffan de Mistura, in his diplomatic efforts aimed at reactivating the political process under the auspices solely of the United Nations. This is the only viable forum to move towards a peaceful, mutually acceptable, lasting solution, and that's why we would call upon the parties involved in this dispute to exercise maximum restraint and resume dialogue under the auspices of the Secretary General's representative and refrain from any unilateral actions that could worsen the situation. Moreover, we call upon the Security Council to give the Special Envoy the political and institutional resources that he needs to launch credible rounds of negotiations with the substantive participation of all of the parties. We also recognize that the Moroccan autonomy initiative presented in 2007 and qualified by this Council in various resolutions, referred to in those resolutions, is a concrete step towards the political process on the basis of resolution 2797 to build practical commitments. And we reiterate the commitment of the King of Morocco to maintain the ceasefire and also being prepared to work fully with the United Nations in the liquidation phase of the mission. Mr. President, in conclusion, we believe that what happened on the 30th of October is the confirmation of a Security Council paralyzed by a veto. It's a council that needs structural, complete structural reform, extending the membership in both categories, regulation of the veto with just fair representation of Africa. We would call upon the permanent members to demonstrate institutional maturity and to stop using the veto as an instrument of political pressure and to cooperate in good faith to establish as soon as possible a United Nations presence in Western Sahara. The time is running out, and the cost of inactivity is always paid for by the most vulnerable. Thank you very much, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Equatorial Guinea. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Canada. I see my French colleague. May I give the floor to the distinguished?

Representative of France.

Thank you, Mr. President. The United Nations and Morocco have gone a long way to building a peaceful future in the Western Sahara with both parties and with due respect to the rights of the populations concerned, beginning with the right to self-determination. Since its establishment in 1991, MINURSO has embodied this determination of the international community to preserve peace and regional stability and to work toward a lasting solution to the dispute. The political process has seen significant progress, particularly since the adoption last year of resolution 27/97, which marked a decisive turning point by relaunching direct negotiations between the parties. We thank the Personal Envoy of Pursled and Boy and the United States for their efforts, Morocco has also undertaken considerable work on its autonomy plan, which served as a basis for the resumption of these discussions. Unfortunately, Russia decided to break this momentum through its veto, a decision that we deeply regret. For France, using the veto requires discernment and constraint. Russia's veto is particularly unjustifiable, since the majority of the Security Council had reiterated in the text put to the vote its support for the mediators and had reaffirmed that any political solution must be just, lasting, and mutually acceptable. We must now look to the future. We take note of the end of MINURSO, which played an essential stabilizing role in the region by helping to reduce the risk of escalation. France calls more than ever before on all parties to exercise restraint and respect the ceasefire. The withdrawal of the mission must not mean the end of the political process or of diplomatic efforts. The elements of the last Security Council resolution on Western Sahara remain valid. We hope that a path of dialogue will emerge once again. We renew our support for the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General of the United Nations so that he can continue to work as facilitator on the basis of resolution 27/97, and we welcome the fact that the United States wants to remain engaged, and we ourselves continue to be engaged. For France, it is clear that the present and future of Western Sahara lie within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty, and that the Moroccan autonomy plan is the path toward achieving a just, lasting, and negotiated political solution, mutually acceptable. Finally, The humanitarian dimension must not be overlooked. We will continue to support the work of UNHCR in establishing, in full accordance with refugee law, lasting solutions for Sahrawi refugees who are facing a worsening of their living conditions and lack prospects for the future, whereas they have the right to a future, and for solutions to be prepared that are mutually acceptable. In conclusion, France would like to reaffirm its willingness to work, despite the Russian veto, to renewal of MINURSO, to work towards a lasting solution for Western Sahara, following on the work conducted successfully in recent months to the benefit of the Sahrawi people and peace and stability in the region. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of France. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Latvia.

Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished colleagues. we align ourselves with the statement delivered by the European Union. We deeply regret the decision by the Russian Federation to cast a veto on 30 October on the renewal of MINURSO mandate. The resolution was rejected at a critical moment for the political process in Western Sahara to move closer towards a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable solution to the conflict. consistent with the UN Charter and its principles, including the principle of self-determination. Latvia, as a member of Security Council, voted in favor of the resolution submitted by the penholder on the renewal of MINUSO’s mandate to support the momentum created earlier this year by the efforts of the Personal Envoy and the United States. and encourage parties to further engage more substantially in the political process. MINURSO has been a key stabilizing presence in Western Sahara for more than three decades. MINURSO was the only impartial international presence in Western Sahara, monitoring the military situation, reporting independently to the Security Council, and helping prevent wider escalation while a political solution is pursued. We want to express our gratitude to all personnel of MINURSO who have played an essential role in building lasting peace for the people of Western Sahara. The failure to renew the mission's mandate and consequential absence of UN presence on the ground creates risk of escalation of this conflict. We call on all parties to cease hostilities, respect the ceasefire, and avoid any act that could jeopardize the political dialogue and process. Mr. President, we wish to make it clear that the Security Council cannot predetermine the solution to the question of Western Sahara. Our vote in favor of the resolution submitted by the penholder did not constitute recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara or endorsement of the autonomy proposal. We reiterate our longstanding position that any solution must be just, lasting, mutually acceptable, and in accordance with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, including the right of self-determination, consistent with the approach repeatedly affirmed by the Security Council. In conclusion, Mr. President, for more than 50 years, the people of Western Sahara have been awaiting the opportunity to meaningfully realize their right of self-determination. Without the presence of UN mission, it is even more critical now for the parties to seriously and without delay engage in negotiations build trust between them, and put the voices and aspirations of the people of Western Sahara at the centre of the political process in order to reach a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Latvia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Denmark.

Mr. President, Denmark, along with the majority of the Security Council members, voted in favor of the resolution that we are discussing here today. We deeply regret that the Russian Federation cast its veto, thus bringing to an abrupt end the mandate for MINURSO, a critical peacekeeping mission. The veto raises important questions about the responsibility that this prerogative entails. Denmark views three aspects as essentials to this discussion. First, the exercise of the veto should never come at the expense of the Council's ability to act, particularly where matters of international peace and security are at stake. Permanent members of the Council bear a special responsibility to exercise this right in good faith and to engage first and foremost in meaningful efforts to find common ground. By not engaging constructively in the negotiations and by casting its veto, Russia prevented the Security Council from endorsing a framework that could have reinvigorated the political process, a political process aimed at achieving a final and mutually acceptable solution that provides for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara. Such disruptive behavior undermines the ability of Council members to reach common solutions and to uphold their primary responsibility of maintaining international peace and security. The veto should never be used as a tool of political obstruction through which one permanent member stands in the way of collective action and meaningful progress. Second, President, Denmark voted in favour of the resolution with the aim of preserving MINUSU’s stabilizing presence on the ground, while at the same time establishing a forward-looking framework for advancing the political process. After years of deadlock, a new window of opportunity for progress had emerged, presenting an opportunity that the Council could not ignore. Circumstances have changed, and our approach must change with them. We recognized that the draft resolution was not perfect. In particular, we have consistently emphasized that the principle of self-determination must meaningfully guide the political process and that its outcome cannot be predetermined. Nevertheless, we believe that substantive disagreement should be addressed through constructive negotiations, rather than preventing the Council from acting at all. Only by engaging in negotiations and adapting the mandates of peacekeeping missions to meet the realities on the ground Can we as a Council make sure to seize and support momentum as it grows, rather than fueling a static status quo? Third, we deeply regret that the Council was unable to extend MINUSUS’s mandate. The decision has resulted in the termination of a long-standing UN presence on the ground at a time of continued tensions and at a critical juncture for the political process. Without MINUSUS’s monitoring and engagement with the parties, The risk of an escalation in hostilities may increase, with potentially serious regional repercussions. We are also concerned about the lack of time to organize and carry out a safe and orderly drawdown. The Council's failure to reach agreement must not undermine prospects for a peaceful and negotiated solution in Western Sahara. We urge all parties to exercise restraint and remain engaged. in efforts towards a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution in accordance with the UN Charter and the principle of self-determination. The people of Western Sahara deserve to live in peace and dignity. An important task remains for the Council to oversee that the UN continues to play a meaningful role in supporting this process. Denmark stands ready to engage constructively in these efforts. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Denmark. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ireland.

Thank you, President. Ireland aligns with the statement of the European Union and adds the following: President, Ireland deeply regrets that the UN Security Council was unable to come to an agreement in relation to the mandate of the MONUSO peacekeeping mission. and that discussions on the renewal of the mandate were terminated following a veto by one member of the Security Council. Ireland reiterates its long-standing view that the veto is an anachronism, which erodes the legitimacy and credibility of the Security Council, and that it should be abolished. We support intensification of efforts to reach agreement on the future of the veto, including discussions on limiting its scope and use, as was agreed in the Pact for the Future. We recognize the need to be pragmatic about what is achievable in the current context, and strongly support a focus on limiting its most damaging impacts. We reiterate our call on all states that have not yet done so to support the.

French-Mexican initiative to collectively and voluntarily suspend the use of the veto in situations involving mass atrocities, and the Act.

Code of Conduct. More broadly, we remain of the view that there is an urgent need for comprehensive reform of the Council. and Ireland again calls for commencement of text-based negotiations to this end. President, Ireland recalls that the Council has a primary but not sole responsibility for matters of international peace and security. The General Assembly also has a role to play, and we welcome the opportunity this debate presents to listen to the rationale offered for the veto which has been cast and to highlight our concerns. In the present case, we are particularly concerned at the manner in which the veto brought MONUSO's mandate to a conclusion without the opportunity for appropriate early transition planning. President Ireland is proud of its long-standing contribution to UN peacekeeping, including in the MONUSO mission. As a troop-contributing country in UN peace operations for over six decades, Ireland understands the challenges of peacekeeping and peacebuilding.

Including the critical importance of effective planning when peacekeeping missions are approaching the end of their mandate.

We recall in that regard Security Council resolution 2594 on transitions, which was led by Ireland and adopted unanimously by the Council on 9 September 2021. That landmark resolution recognizes the importance of sustainable transition planning.

And aims to ensure that as UN peace operations.

Draw down, they do so in a way that supports peacebuilding objectives and safeguards peace gains made. It recognizes the need for proactive and integrated transition planning, the critical importance of national leadership and ownership, including on the protection of civilians, and also the importance of adequate resourcing.

It further emphasizes the need for planning and coordination with the host state and national stakeholders, including women, youth.

And civil society. President, the importance of appropriately planned transitions was also recognized in the outcome of the Peacebuilding Architecture Review, adopted last year by both the Council and this Assembly. Among other elements, it emphasized the need for system-wide coherence and for strengthened cooperation between the Council and the PBC during mission transition processes. President, the precipitous manner in which the MONUSO mandate has come to an end by virtue of the veto cast could not be further removed from this agreed approach, stressing the need for well-planned and appropriate transitions.

It has made far more complex those tasks involved in the liquidation phase of the mission.

As well as the broader challenge of preserving and building on the peace gains made over some three decades. Ireland commends the important stabilizing role of the MINURSO mission and the many peacekeepers that served in it over 30 years. Going forward, Ireland will continue to.

Support the work of the Secretary-General and his personal envoy, Staffan de Mistura, to advance.

Dialogue, the ultimate outcome of which must be a realistic and durable political framework with a credible means.

Of securing the consent and confidence of the people of Western Sahara.

Thank you.

Representative of Ireland, I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cúil na nGaoire.

Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to thank you for convening this important debate. that most certainly contributes to strengthening the transparency and responsibility of the Security Council to the General Assembly. I would also like to commend your introductory remarks on the use of the veto, as well as on the situation of MINURSO. Sir, as you are well aware, this meeting is taking place following the use of a double veto on 30 October 2026. This paralyzed the Security Council regarding the renewal of MINUSO’s mandate. This deadlock unfortunately led to the end of the mandate of the mission on 31 October and its liquidation from 1 November, thus bringing an end to more than 35 years of existence and presence on the ground. Whilst taking note of this situation, my delegation would like to reiterate that the withdrawal of MINUSO in no way means the end of its responsibilities. The ceasefire indeed involves all parties to it. We would therefore join with all calls for refraining from any acts of violence or provocation. and for guaranteeing the safety and security of UN personnel throughout the entire process. From this standpoint, Cote d'Ivoire welcomes the commitment of the Kingdom of Morocco to ensure an orderly, dignified, and respectful withdrawal of the mission until its last component part is withdrawn. By the same token, my country is pleased to note the commitment of the Kingdom of Morocco to respecting the ceasefire affirmed by its most senior authorities on 30 October and 4 November. We would urge all parties to get on board with this dynamic in order to preserve peace in the region. Mr. President, despite the failure to adopt the resolution renewing MINUSO’s mandate, Côte d’Ivoire would like to reiterate that resolution 2797 of 2025 of the Security Council established the framework to find a definitive solution to the status quo that has been ongoing for several decades now, so namely the Moroccan autonomy initiative, supported today by about 130 states, including three permanent members of the Security Council. In our opinion, this initiative, this plan, is a serious, credible proposal. It provides a permanent framework to take into consideration the specific specificities of Moroccan Sahara and to foster the participation of its people in managing the political, economic, and social affairs in the region. Cote d'Ivoire would also like to highlight the ongoing efforts undertaken by the Moroccan authorities in the area of economic and social development, as well as those initiatives to foster and strengthen the protection of human rights in the region. To this end, bolstering the role of regional human rights commissions in Laâoune and Dakhla, and also cooperation with the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, these are points that need to be encouraged. All of these initiatives highlight the efforts made by the Kingdom of Morocco to promote development and governance in the region. Mr. President, in conclusion, My country would like to reiterate its call to all stakeholders to demonstrate realism, a spirit of compromise, and of good faith in order to achieve a political, realistic, pragmatic, lasting solution to this dispute regarding the Moroccan Sahara. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Côte d’Ivoire. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Guinea-Bissau.

Mr. President, thank you for convening this meeting pursuant to General Assembly resolution 76/262. Following the meeting of the Security Council of 30 October 2026, in which a veto prevented the renewal of the mandate of MINUSO. The draft resolution was supported by 11 members of the Security Council. Although not adopted, it underwent weeks of negotiations and multiple amendments. Building on the historic Security Council resolution 2797, the draft resolution mainly, among other things, aimed at four critical steps that would have helped political solution. First, adapting the role of MINUSO to the realities on the ground. Second, acknowledging that the status quo is no longer acceptable. Third, anchoring the final settlement of the regional dispute over the Moroccan Sahara within the sole framework of autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty. And fourth, setting the precise deadline of six months for the registration of the population in the Tindouf camps. Mr. President, Guinea-Bissau takes note of the non-renewal of MINUSO. However, we firmly believe that this moment calls for renewed determination and collective commitment to turn the page for this regional dispute through realism, pragmatism, and compromise. Realism, pragmatic compromise. Last year, the Security Council, through its resolution 27/97, set the basis for the solution: the Moroccan autonomy initiative. We therefore support the efforts of the United Nations to find a definitive political solution on the basis of the autonomy plan under Moroccan sovereignty. Guinea-Bissau believes that it is no longer a question of managing this regional dispute. Rather, it's a question of transforming the parameters of its final settlement within the sole framework of autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty. Guinea-Bissau reaffirms its consistent position in support of Morocco's territorial integrity and sovereignty, including it is Sahara. We welcome the Kingdom of Morocco's continued commitment to the promotion and respect of human rights and inclusive governance, as, for instance, demonstrated by the full participation of the representatives from the region at the legislative election of September 23rd, 2026. and the active participation of the elected regional councils on democratic representation and local autonomy, as attested by international observers. Mr. President, Guinea-Bissau commends the commitment of the Kingdom of Morocco to ensure an orderly and dignified withdrawal of the mission. We call on other parties to fully assume their responsibilities to refrain from any act of violence or provocation and to guarantee the safety of the United Nations personnel during the withdrawal. I thank you for your attention.

I thank the distinguished representative of Guinea-Bissau. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Indonesia.

Mr. President, thank you for convening this important debate. Once again, the Security Council's credibility is being tested, this time on the question of Western Sahara. What is at stake is not only the Council's ability to act collectively, but also our shared commitment to peaceful settlement of disputes and the maintenance of international peace and security. Allow me to highlight three points. First, Indonesia expresses deep concern over the continuing polarization within the Security Council. The inability of the Council to reach consensus on important issues undermines its primary responsibility under the UN Charter. Division within the Council must not lead to institutional paralysis, nor should peacekeeping operations be subjected to political pressures. Restoring unity within the Security Council is key to ensure effective action and maintain confidence in its ability to carry out its mandate. Second, Indonesia remains committed to contribute to a just, realistic, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution on the question of Western Sahara. In this context, we reaffirm our steadfast support for all efforts under the auspices of the Secretary-General consistent with relevant UN resolutions and the UN Charter. We also reiterate our full support for the mediation efforts of the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy. Indonesia urges all relevant parties and stakeholders to remain meaningfully engaged in constructive dialogue and refrain from actions that could escalate tensions. Third, Indonesia recognizes MINURSO’s long-standing contribution to regional stability and confidence-building. While it is not a substitute for a political solution, MINURSO has for decades played an important role in maintaining regional stability, supporting security, and upholding ceasefires. It provided the Council with impartial and timely reporting from the ground, helping to ensure that any deliberation on this complex issue is informed by reliable information on the ground. In this regard, Indonesia stresses the importance of close consultation with TCCs on all operational arrangements regarding its withdrawal, as well as the safety and security for personnel on the ground. Mr. President, multilateralism derives its true strength not from division, but from our collective capacity to build bridges. It is our sincere hope that the Council will find common ground, ensuring that our shared commitment to peace and peaceful settlement of disputes remains steadfast. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Indonesia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ecuador.

Thank you, Mr. President. President, Ecuador thanks you for convening this meeting pursuant to resolution 76/262, which enables the membership to examine the consequences of the use of the veto and to contribute to the search for a peaceful solution to the question of Western Sahara. The Security Council acts on behalf of all Member States. That responsibility requires seeking agreements that enable the United Nations to fulfil its mandate of maintaining international peace and security. The delegation of Ecuador regrets that it was not possible to adopt the draft resolution extending the mandate of MONUSO, which was supported by 11 members of the Security Council. Its expiry creates uncertainty regarding regional stability and the continuity of the United Nations presence on the ground. Ecuador’s commitment to peace is also reflected in its contribution to this mission, to which it has deployed two members of its military personnel. President Ecuador reaffirms its support for the autonomy proposal presented by Morocco in 2007. which it considers the only serious, credible and realistic solution to the regional dispute over the Sahara. It further maintains that autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty represents the most feasible option for bringing this dispute to an end. This support stems from the conviction that the proposal offers a concrete path for overcoming the stalemate and achieving a definitive and mutually acceptable political settlement. Accordingly, my country supports using it as the basis for negotiations facilitated by the United Nations and encourages the parties to participate in good faith and without preconditions, with political will and a readiness to reach agreements. It also reiterates its support for the Secretary-General and his personal envoy. The current situation makes it all the more necessary to sustain their mediation efforts and preserve the conditions for dialogue. The General Assembly must contribute to creating an environment conducive to that purpose. This debate offers an opportunity to strengthen international support and to urge the parties and neighboring countries to act responsibly and in a constructive spirit. Finally, Ecuador urges the members of the Security Council to overcome their differences and agree on a response that promotes regional stability and advances the political process under the auspices of the United Nations. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Ecuador. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Madagascar.

Mr. President, Madagascar welcomes the current debate in accordance with Resolution 76/262 of the General Assembly, enabling Member States to state their views after a veto has been cast in the Security Council. Today's debate follows the veto cast on the 30th of October with regard to a resolution on Western Sahara, it is also an opportunity to contribute to an exchange of views that we would like to be open and constructive with regard to questions that relate to our collective responsibility in the area of international peace and security. Madagascar is attached to the principles of territorial integrity of United Nations members, and we express our support for the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Morocco and its territorial integrity. Moreover, Madagascar reiterates its position of support to the role of the United Nations, as well as the efforts of the Secretary-General and his personal envoy. for resolving the dispute in Western Sahara and working towards full autonomy under the Moroccan plan could be achievable, as provided for in resolution 2797 of the Security Council. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Madagascar. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of New Zealand.

President, New Zealand is deeply disappointed that we meet again to discuss the use of the veto, and that the veto's use has been extended into another area of the Security Council's essential work. As we have stated repeatedly, the veto remains the most undemocratic feature of the United Nations system, and its use continues to undermine the credibility and effectiveness of the Security Council. We regret the decision by the Russian Federation to veto the draft resolution concerning the mandate of MINUSO, followed by the Council's subsequent inability to reach agreement on a way forward. MINUSO has played a key role in Western Sahara, monitoring the ceasefire, supporting de-escalation, maintaining the conditions for the political process.

The abrupt.

Conclusion of MINUSO's mandate provides insufficient time for effective transition, leaving increased uncertainty and risk to international peace and security. President, The Security Council's legitimacy depends on its ability to act. Each use of the veto further erodes confidence in the council and reinforces the case for greater transparency, accountability, and restraint by permanent members. New Zealand is a strong proponent of the veto initiative, and we hope that these meetings will encourage council members to compromise for the collective good. At the same time, we reiterate that when the Security Council is unable to act, the General Assembly can play a constructive role in finding potential ways forward.

Thank you.

Distinguished representative of New Zealand, I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil.

Thank you. Mr. President, I thank you for convening this meeting. We need to find ways to make this debate more effective according to the purposes of resolution 76/262. This is not an isolated deadlock. The Council's inability to once again take concrete action reminds us of the urgency of its necessary and overdue comprehensive report. Although one was vetoed, the Council failed to adopt the two draft resolutions concerning MINUSO. As a result, the mission's mandate expired on October 31st, bringing its peacekeeping operations to an abrupt and dangerous end. The consequences extend beyond this particular case. They raise serious concerns about the future of UN peacekeeping. and undermine the credibility of the Security Council in acting decisively on matters of international peace and security. As a country that has been contributing to MINUSCE, Brazil recognizes the important role of the mission, that the mission has played since its establishment. We value its work on monitoring the ceasefire, supporting stability, and creating conditions conducive to a peaceful political solution. We also pay tribute to all personnel who have served in the mission. We also recognize the UN Secretariat's efforts to ensure an orderly liquidation process. However, administrative arrangements cannot replace a planned and responsible transition. MINUSO's mandate ended without an agreement transition strategy, an advanced withdrawal timetable, and adequate arrangements, fueling a concerning precedent to UN peacekeeping. This situation should prompt broader reflection on the Security Council’s responsibility. The Council is responsible not only for establishing and renewing peacekeeping mandates, but also for ensuring their responsible conclusion. Peace operations must be adequately prepared, supported, and concluded through carefully considered decisions at the appropriate bodies, especially the Security Council. They cannot end abruptly simply because the Council fails to reach an agreement. In failing to act in accordance with the mandates conferred by us all through the UN Charter, the Security Council is in dereliction of its duties. Such an outcome risks undermining years of progress. It may also create security vacuums and jeopardize stability. Brazil has consistently emphasized the importance of careful, planned transitions. Adequate transition strategies must accompany the conclusion of a peacekeeping mandate. This should preserve achievements, ensure continuity of peacebuilding efforts, and prevent the recurrence or escalation of conflicts. The Security Council must exercise its responsibilities with predictability, foresight, and accountability. Mr. President, the end of MINUS’s operation does not diminish the importance of pursuing a political solution to the question of the Western Sahara. Brazil calls on parties to exercise restraint, including maintaining the ceasefire, refrain from actions that could increase tensions, and engage constructively in political dialogue under the United Nations auspices. We reiterate our support for the efforts of the Secretary General and his personal envoy. We remain convinced that a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution must be achieved through peaceful negotiations and agreement accepted by the parties in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Brazil. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malaysia.

Mr. President, Thank you for convening this meeting. At the outset, Malaysia recalls General Assembly resolution 80/89 on the question of Western Sahara, adopted by consensus, and the Fourth Committee’s recent adoption of a corresponding draft resolution with overwhelming support on 15 October 2026. These outcomes reaffirm Member States’ support for the negotiating process initiated and sustained by the Security Council through its relevant resolutions. This process seeks to achieve a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution that provides for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara. In pursuing this objective, Malaysia supports the right to self-determination of the people of Western Sahara in the context of arrangements consistent with the principles and purposes of the United Nations Charter. We commend the efforts of the Secretary-General and his personal envoy, and will continue to support United Nations-led dialogue and further negotiations between the parties towards an amicable resolution. We attach particular importance to advancing the political process in support of peace, security, and stability in the region. Mr. President, Malaysia notes with deep concern that the Security Council was unable to reach an agreement on the renewal of MINUSOS mandate. We call on the Council to continue its engagement and to narrow the differences among its members. in order to effectively discharge its primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security. This debate, convened pursuant to General Assembly resolution 76/262 on the veto initiative, offers Member States an important opportunity to deliberate on matters affecting international peace and security. It also serves to uphold transparency and accountability in the work of the Council. Malaysia’s position on the veto is principled and consistent, irrespective of the situation in which it is used or the permanent member casting it. We reiterate our long-standing call for its reform, with a view to its eventual abolition. A reformed, expanded, and more representative Security Council would be better placed to fulfil its responsibilities under the Charter effectively and credibly. In conclusion, Malaysia calls on all parties concerned to refrain from hostilities, exercise restraint, and engage constructively, guided by international law, the Charter of the United Nations, and the principle of self-determination.

I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Malaysia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Gambia.

Thank you, Mr. President, for convening this debate. The Gambia welcomes the opportunity to address the General Assembly on agenda item 62 on the use of the veto pursuant to resolution 76/262 at the Security Council on October 30, 2026. The Gambia recognizes and supports the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Kingdom of Morocco over its entire territory, including the Sahara. This position reflects our commitment to the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, respect of sovereignty of states, and the pursuit of lasting peace and stability in the region. We seize this occasion to reaffirm our long-standing, firm, and consistent support for the Kingdom of Morocco. The Gambia fully supports the Moroccan autonomy plan. on the Moroccan sovereignty as the only realistic, credible, and lasting basis for negotiation. This initiative provides a serious and pragmatic framework for reaching a mutually acceptable political solution. It also offers the most viable path to resolving the question of the Sahara in a manner that preserves Morocco's unity while advancing the well-being and development of the populations concerned. We therefore encourage all parties to engage constructively and in good faith on the basis of the autonomy plan. A negotiated settlement grounded in this proposal is essential for promoting regional stability, economic prosperity, and the long-term interests of the people of the region. We welcome Morocco's continued commitment to dialogue for a peaceful, political, and lasting resolution of the matter. Mr. President, The Gambia remains convinced that the autonomy plan under Moroccan sovereignty constitute the sole realistic foundation for progress. We therefore call on the international community to support this approach and to work toward a just and lasting solution that respects Morocco's territorial integrity. The Gambia will continue to support the United Nations-led process and strongly believes that dialogue and continued engagement remain the most constructive means, and we stand ready to contribute efforts that advance peace, stability, and development on that basis. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Gambia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Comoros.

Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen, representatives, The Union of the Comoros wishes to thank the President of the General Assembly for convening this meeting. pursuant to resolution 76/262, in order to enable Member States to examine the consequences of the use of the veto in the Security Council. Our delegation wishes to recall that the power of veto, as provided for in the United Nations Charter, should never impede collective efforts aimed at preserving international peace, security and stability. With regard to the question of the Moroccan Sahara, the Union of the Comoros underscores the importance of adopting a pragmatic, realistic and constructive approach based on dialogue, negotiation and compromise. In this regard, we recall the relevance of Security Council resolution 2797 of 2025. which identified the Moroccan autonomy proposal within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty as the sole basis for negotiations, with a view to achieving a just, lasting, practicable and mutually acceptable political solution in accordance with Security Council resolutions. We believe that the continuation of the political process under the auspices of the United Nations remains essential. It should enable the four parties to resume constructive dialogue in a spirit of responsibility and good faith. Mr. President, the Union of the Comoros also attaches particular importance to preserving the achievements of the United Nations presence in the region, as well as to the safety of UN personnel during their withdrawal. We welcome the Kingdom of Morocco’s commitment to cooperation in ensuring the orderly, safe and dignified withdrawal of MINUSO personnel. We encourage all parties concerned to respect the ceasefire, avoid any provocation, and actively contribute to the search for a peaceful settlement of this dispute. Our delegation further believes that the use of the veto should always be accompanied by a high sense of responsibility, so as not to compromise the Security Council's ability to respond to the legitimate expectations of the international community. In conclusion, we call for the continuation of diplomatic efforts under the auspices of the Secretary General and his personal envoy, with a view to achieving a lasting political solution in full respect of the principles of the United Nations Charter. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Comoros. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Sierra Leone.

Mr. President, Sierra Leone thanks the President of the General Assembly for convening this meeting pursuant to General Assembly resolution 76/262, following the exercise of the veto on 30 October 2026. concerning the renewal of the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara. We remain a committed supporter of the accountability function of the veto initiative, which ensures that the wider membership is heard when the Security Council is unable to act. Sierra Leone regrets that the Security Council was unable to adopt the draft resolution supported by 11 of its members. following the negative vote of a permanent member. We equally regret that the alternative proposal for a technical rollover did not secure the necessary support. For the first time in 35 years, agreement could not be reached to ensure the continuity of MONUSO’s mandate. During our recent tenure on the Security Council, Sierra Leone’s vote in favour of resolution 2797 clearly conveyed our political position. In explaining that vote, we noted the growing international momentum behind the Moroccan Autonomy Initiative. We reiterate today our support for the Moroccan Autonomy Initiative as the most credible, realistic, and viable framework for resolving this question. This support is grounded in international law. As the International Court of Justice affirmed in its 1975 advisory opinion, The decolonization of Western Sahara must proceed through the free and genuine expression of the will of its people. The Friendly Relations Declaration on which the Court itself relied recognizes that these rights may be realized through any political status freely determined by a people. Autonomy negotiated in good faith and freely accepted by the people of Western Sahara is therefore consistent with that principle. Resolution 27/97 itself calls for a mutually acceptable political solution that provides for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara. We remain convinced that such a settlement, based on the Moroccan Autonomy Initiative and facilitated by the United Nations, can be mutually acceptable. Mr. President, the United Nations expresses concern about the potential security implications of MONUSO’s closure. especially against the backdrop of continuing instability in the Sahel. We share the concerns of the Secretary General about the security situation throughout the territory of Western Sahara and the risk of escalation of hostilities. We therefore call for the ceasefire to be preserved and for parties to exercise restraint and avoid actions that will heighten tensions. We welcome the commitment expressed by the Kingdom of Morocco to support an orderly withdrawal and underline that the safety of United Nations personnel must be assured throughout by all. We affirm our support for the Secretary General and his personal envoy, Mr. Staffan de Mistura, and encourage the parties to cooperate meaningfully with their efforts to advance the political process. We extend our deep gratitude to MONUSO personnel and to the Special Representative for Western Sahara, Mr. Alexander Ivanko, whose leadership has guided the mission through a particularly challenging period since the resumption of hostilities in 2020. Sierra Leone also pays tributes to the 20 MINUSO personnel who lost their lives in service during the mission's 35 years in Western Sahara. Mr. President, the lapse of a mandate must not become the lapse of a political process, nor a setback for diplomacy. Member States must remain committed to supporting all efforts towards a peaceful and negotiated resolution of the question of Western Sahara. Mr. President, allow me to close on a broader point. The veto is not a privilege. It is a responsibility held in trust for the entire membership, on whose behalf the Security Council acts under Article 24 of the UN Charter. Its misuse, particularly on African situations, shows why it must be exercised with restraint, transparency, and accountability. Africa makes up more than a quarter of the membership of this organization and much of the Council's agenda, yet remains without a permanent seat and without a decisive voice when such decisions are taken. The common African position as espoused in the Zvini Consensus and Seat Declaration seeks to redress this historical injustice through no less than two permanent seats, with all the prerogatives and privileges of permanent membership, including the right of veto and five non-permanent seats. Africa remains opposed in principle to the veto, but holds that so long as it exists, it should, as a matter of common justice, be extended to all new permanent members. In the Pact for the Future, our leaders committed to redress the historical injustice against Africa as a priority. and to intensify efforts on the future of the veto, including limiting its scope and use. Sierra Leone calls on all Member States to honour that commitment. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Sierra Leone. We have heard the last speaker in this debate for this meeting. We shall hear the remaining speakers tomorrow morning, Wednesday 11 November, in this hall. The detailed programme will be announced in the Journal. The Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 62. The meeting is adjourned.