The return of Sahrawis from the Tindouf camps, the scope of diplomatic powers, the procedures for appointing the head of the autonomous government, and the management of natural resources in the Saharan provinces have emerged as the main points of disagreement raised by the Polisario Front and Algeria during the U.S.-initiated discussions.
In Madrid, Western Sahara negotiations have highlighted the differences between the Polisario Front and the United States, with the latter rejecting the Sahrawi and Algerian proposals, particularly concerning the organization of a referendum and a trade agreement. Despite showing some openness to the idea of autonomy, the Polisario insists that any progress must be contingent upon international guarantees and a general amnesty.