"We are striving for it. At any rate, we are trying to develop relations [with Russia] in such a way that we pay visits [to Russia], that we ourselves are visited, and that there are reciprocal visits at various levels, be it at the governmental, parliamentary, partial or media level," Ghali said when asked about bilateral visits between the unrecognized republic and Russia within the framework of the African Union summit.
The SADR authorities consider engagement with Russian delegations "almost a tradition," as the republic's missions frequently visit Moscow to exchange views and consult on issues of mutual interest, the official said, stressing the role of Russia in supporting liberation movements around the world.
"Indeed, Russia is to play an important role, and especially an important role in today's international situation, which is characterized by many international crises, and so Russia can restore the role it played in the past," Ghali said.
The 37th summit of the African Union was held on February 17-18 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Western Sahara, a former colony of Spain, came under the control of Morocco and Mauritania in 1975. A year later, the Polisario Front, a local nationalist movement, proclaimed the SADR on the territory of Western Sahara. Since then, the Polisario Front has been fighting the Moroccan government for control of the region. Currently, Morocco controls some 80% of Western Sahara, with 20% being under the control of the Polisario Front.