Kheddad was outstanding negotiator, architect of peace process

Addis Ababa, 4 April 2020 (SPS) - African Union Commissioner for Peace and Security, Smail Chergui, addressed a message of condolence to the Saharawi people following the passing of diplomat M'hamed Kheddad.

The official of the AU, of which the Sahrawi state is a founding member and enjoys full rights, stressed in his message that Kheddad was "an exceptional negotiator" and one of the "architects of the peace process in Western Sahara".

Smail Chergui expressed his "condolences to the martyr's family, to the authorities of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic and to the entire Sahrawi people for this unfortunate loss".

Sahrawi diplomat M'hamed Kheddad died on Wednesday after a long illness.

He had held important positions and functions in the Polisario Front and the Saharawi government.

Several political figures, diplomats and international organizations has reacted, while reiterating their unwavering support for the legitimate struggle of the Sahrawi people for their independence. (SPS)