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QUESTION: And I have to ask about one country we —
SECRETARY BLINKEN: Sure.
QUESTION: — one region we rarely talk about, Western Sahara. And we saw towards the end of the Trump administration that they recognized the sovereignty of Morocco on that disputed region. Is this something that you’re going to reverse?
SECRETARY BLINKEN: We are very focused now on supporting the efforts of the UN envoy, Staffan de Mistura, and a UN-led process to find a durable and dignified solution. That’s the focus of our efforts.
QUESTION: But are you going to reverse that decision?
SECRETARY BLINKEN: We’re focused on the – on this UN process, helping to move it forward. We’re talking to all of the parties involved. And right now, the focus should be on what the UN is doing, again, to find a durable and dignified solution.
QUESTION: The United States is the only country in the world that recognizes full sovereignty of Morocco on that region. Are you going to reverse that position —
SECRETARY BLINKEN: Again, our focus —
QUESTION: — and give a chance to the effort that you’re talking about, a possible referendum? Are you going to reverse the position?
SECRETARY BLINKEN: We’ve been very much engaged with all of the parties. And as I said, our focus right now, especially since we now have a UN envoy after a lot of time not having one, is to make sure that that process can move forward. That’s where our focus is. That’s where our support is going.
QUESTION: Secretary, thank you very much.
SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thank you. Good to be with you.
(Break.)
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Origen: Secretary Antony J. Blinken with Anne Soy of BBC Africa – United States Department of State