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2.
HMG's policy is one of neutrality.
We do not accept
either Morocco or Polisario claims to the disputed territory,
and we recognise neither the Polisario nor the self-declared
'Sahara Arab Democratic Republic'. We do not wish to disturb
our good relations with Morocco or Algeria. We keep in close
step with the Twelve. At UNGA in 1985 the Moroccan resolution
was withdrawn and the Algerian resolution calling for direct
talks between Morocco and the Polisario received overwhelming
support (91 (Spain and Greece) - 6 43 (rest of Twelve).
3.
The controversy over the refugees' status is an extension
of the territorial dispute. Since the conflict began much of
the population has settled in refugee camps at Tindouf which is
situated in Algerian territory. The Moroccans claim that the
camps are nothing more than training bases for the Polisario.
They have not so far substantiated any of these claims and the
UNHCR representative based in Algiers who has visited the camps,
has said that there was no evidence to believe the Moroccan
claims.
4.
Further background:
(i)
(ii)
Rabat telno 149 of 6 June;
Algiers telno 137 of 15 June;
(iii)
Rabat telno 160 of 19 June.
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