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STATEMENT BY THE CUBAN REPRESENTATIVE Mrs. REBECA HERNÁNDEZ TOLEDANO, FIRST SECRETARY, AT THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON DECOLONIZATION, ON AGENDA ITEM: THE QUESTION OF WESTERN SAHARA. New York, 13 June 2011.

 

Mr. Chairman,

For 40 years, the people of Western Sahara have fought for its right to self-determination, a right that has been enshrined in General Assembly resolution 1514 (XV).

The United Nations have often reiterated that the conflict in Western Sahara is a question of decolonization included in the scope of General Assembly resolution 1514 (XV), and is therefore under their direct responsibility. The Special Committee on Decolonization has a central role in the review of this issue.

The Saharan people is the only that, in a sovereign manner, can freely decide its future, without any sort of pressure or conditionalities. So is confirmed by the more than 40 resolutions adopted by the United Nations since this territory was included in the list of non-self-governing territories in 1963.

Mr. Chairman,

In recent years, four formal rounds of negotiations have been held under the auspices of the Secretary-General, and informal talks have been taking place in which the parties have reaffirmed their commitment to continuing said negotiations. We hope they continue to make efforts aimed at a solution guaranteeing the right to self-determination of the Saharan people, in the context of agreements compatible with the principles and purposes of the Charter of the United Nations and General Assembly resolution 1514 (XV).

The Saharan people need the support of the international community. Cuba, despite its modest resources, has contributed, within its capabilities, to the development of the Saharan people, particularly concerning education.

In keeping with the calls made every year by the UN General Assembly upon Member States to offer study and training facilities for inhabitants of non-self-governing territories, over 400 Saharan students are currently studying in Cuba, at various levels and branches of the educational system.

 

I would like to conclude, Mr. Chairman, by reiterating that Cuba, as in the past, will continue supporting a just and definitive solution to the question of Western Sahara, in accordance with relevant UN General Assembly and Security Council resolutions.

The Saharan people can always count on the firm solidarity of Cuba in their heroic struggle to exercise their legitimate rights.

Thank you

(Cubaminrex-Embacuba ONU)