Us diplomat engages sahrawi peace advocates in laayoune discussions
us diplomat meets with sahrawi peace advocates in laayoune
A high-level meeting took place in Laayoune on July 28, 2026, between the U.S. embassy’s political counselor and leaders of the Sahraouis pour la paix movement, marking a significant step in ongoing bilateral discussions addressing the Western Sahara conflict.
The gathering, held at the residence of Mohamed Lemine Nafa, a member of the movement’s permanent political commission, was initiated by the U.S. diplomatic mission and brought together key figures from the organization. The meeting aimed to strengthen collaborative efforts in resolving the long-standing conflict.
During the session, Sahraouis pour la paix representatives outlined their organizational journey over the past six years, highlighting their vision for a peaceful resolution to the Western Sahara dispute. They also addressed inquiries from the American delegation regarding the current state of the conflict and potential pathways to progress.
The movement’s leaders emphasized the importance of including their group in the United Nations-sponsored negotiation process, arguing that it represents a legitimate platform for Sahrawi voices advocating for a political and peaceful solution. They stressed that any sustainable resolution must incorporate the participation of all Sahrawi stakeholders and civil society representatives.
The American political counselor expressed strong U.S. support for a resolution to the conflict, rejecting the continuation of the status quo. Washington’s commitment to reviving political dialogue was underscored, with the diplomat reaffirming America’s backing for initiatives aimed at unlocking diplomatic deadlocks that have stalled progress in recent years.
The U.S. representative praised the work of Sahraouis pour la paix, describing it as a constructive and engaged Sahrawi voice advocating for negotiated solutions. He emphasized that the U.S. places significant value on supporting Sahrawi voices that prioritize agreements ensuring regional stability and security, thereby fostering conditions for diplomatic breakthroughs.
This meeting follows a recent delegation from the movement’s engagement with U.S., French, and British permanent representatives at the United Nations in New York, reinforcing the momentum toward a political solution.
The discussions took place just before the United Nations Security Council’s session reviewing the implementation of Resolution 2797, which has garnered international consensus in favor of advancing a political and peaceful solution to the Western Sahara question.