The leader of the Western Saharan Independence movement has called on the Irish Government to “be a champion” and to set an example for other European countries by supporting the desert region in its quest for self-determination and independence.

Brahim Ghali, president of the Polisario Front, which leads the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) and claims jurisdiction over the vast desert region, said Ireland could “draw more European countries to join the collective effort” to bring “freedom and independence” to the Western Saharan people.

“We have come to Ireland to strengthen and deepen the relationship that exists between our people because we have many things in common in terms of our history and our values,” Mr Ghali said.

“We believe the Irish people understand and feel the plight of our people because of Irish history and our joint attachment to human values. This is why we’re here in Ireland, because people here understand the right to self-determination.”