Ahmed Attaf Calls for Self-Determination for Sahrawi People and a New Global Approach at NAM Meeting

Speaking at the opening of the 19th Ministerial Meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement under the theme “Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Prosperity,” Ahmed Attaf emphasized Algeria’s firm stance on decolonization and national sovereignty.

“The Sahrawi people demand nothing more than to exercise their legitimate and legal right to self-determination to freely decide their future without constraint or guardianship,” Attaf declared.

He reaffirmed that Algeria upholds the NAM’s principled position on the Western Sahara issue, consistent with international law and United Nations resolutions.

Turning to the Palestinian issue, the minister praised the final meeting documents addressing the situation in the Middle East. He stated that the Palestinian people’s hopes lie in consolidating the ceasefire in Gaza and launching a genuine political process that ensures the creation of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state as the only just and lasting solution to the conflict.

Attaf stressed that the Non-Aligned Movement must now “make its voice heard” and adopt a new approach to meet global challenges related to security and development. This, he said, requires restoring trust between the Global North and South through equal partnerships based on mutual respect and cooperation, rather than domination and dependency.

He added that reforming the international system — including the UN Security Council, the World Trade Organization, the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund — is essential to correct deep-rooted imbalances and ensure fair governance.

Attaf also highlighted the need to implement all international commitments related to sustainable development, debt relief, climate justice, innovation, and technology transfer to developing nations.

The meeting coincides with the 70th anniversary of the Bandung Conference, a turning point in the decolonization movement. Attaf recalled that Bandung played a decisive role in internationalizing Algeria’s liberation struggle by placing it on the UN agenda.

“As we remember our brothers and friends who supported our cause, we reaffirm our commitment to the Bandung principles — solidarity, independence, and justice,” he concluded.

Ahmed Attaf’s speech in Kampala reaffirmed Algeria’s long-standing commitment to decolonization, self-determination, and global equity, calling on the NAM to lead efforts toward a reformed and more just international order.