New York (United Nations), November 11, 2026 (SPS) – Latvia has clarified that its vote in favour of the recent US-sponsored draft resolution at the Security Council does not constitute recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara or endorsement of the autonomy proposal, stressing that the Council cannot predetermine the outcome of the political process.
Addressing the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday during the debate under the “veto initiative” (Resolution 76/262), Latvia’s Permanent Representative said his country’s position was grounded in the UN Charter and its principles, foremost among them the right to self-determination. He also expressed regret over the Security Council’s failure to agree on extending the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) on October 30.
He highlighted MINURSO’s central role over more than three decades as the only neutral international presence in Western Sahara, monitoring the military situation, providing independent reports to the Security Council and helping prevent escalation. He also expressed appreciation to the mission’s personnel for their work.
“Latvia wishes to make clear that the Security Council cannot predetermine a solution to the question of Western Sahara. Our vote in favour of the draft resolution submitted by the penholder does not constitute recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara, nor endorsement of the autonomy proposal,” he stated.
Latvia reiterated that any settlement must be just, lasting and mutually acceptable, in accordance with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, including the right to self-determination.
The Latvian representative warned that the absence of a UN presence on the ground posed serious risks of renewed escalation, calling on all parties to cease hostilities, respect the ceasefire and refrain from actions that could jeopardize the political process.
He concluded by recalling that the people of Western Sahara had been waiting for more than 50 years for a meaningful opportunity to exercise their right to self-determination, stressing that their voices and aspirations must remain at the heart of efforts to achieve a just and lasting solution.
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