The European Commission High Representative, Catherine Ashton, reiterated the EU's support for the Western Sahara people's right to self determination, reports AllAfrica.

In a letter dated May 30th on a Fisheries Protocol Agreement between the EU and Morocco, Ashton wrote:

"The EU reaffirms its full support for the UN Secretary-General's efforts, commends the work of his Personal envoy Ambassador, Mr Christopher Ross, and encourages the parties to work towards achieving a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution, which will provide for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara, in agreement with relevant UN Security Council resolutions."

"The EU remains concerned about the implications of this conflict for the security and cooperation in the region. The EU has repeatedly called on all parties to refrain from violence and to respect human rights".

"Western Sahara related issues are regularly discussed in the framework of the EU-Morocco political dialogue and at meetings of the joint bodies established under the Association Agreement"

"On that basis, The European Commission is seeking to obtain an agreement that contains a clause of compliance with human rights, which is fully compliant with international law and serves the interests of all the local populations concerned In particular, The European Commission is proposing that Morocco should regularly report on the economic and social impact of the sector support provided for by the Protocol, including its geographical distribution. In case of serious violations of Human rights by Morocco, the application of the future fisheries Protocol could also be suspended"