Western Sahara's diplomatic opening – in pictures
US plans to open a consulate in Western Sahara mark a turning point for the disputed territory. US recognition of Morocco’s authority over the land frustrates indigenous Sahrawis seeking independence but others see the future US consulate as a boost for Western Sahara cities like Dakhla
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An archway in the entrance of Dakhla carries an image of Morocco’s King Mohammed VI, in Western Sahara
Photograph: Mosa’ab Elshamy/AP
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Boys play football outside their homes in Dakhla city
Photograph: Mosa’ab Elshamy/AP
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A fruit vendor wearing a face mask waits for clients in a daily market in Dakhla
Photograph: Mosa’ab Elshamy/AP
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A view of the road leading to the fishing port in Dakhla
Photograph: Mosa’ab Elshamy/AP
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Fishermen transport their catch after docking in the main port in Dakhla
Photograph: Mosa’ab Elshamy/AP
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A seagull flies past a worker and a fishing vessel docked in the main port in Dakhla city, Western Sahara
Photograph: Mosa’ab Elshamy/AP
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Fishermen transport their catch after docking in the main port in Dakhla
Photograph: Mosa’ab Elshamy/AP
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Fish is displayed for merchants during an auction at the main port in Dakhla
Photograph: Mosa’ab Elshamy/AP
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Fish is displayed for merchants inside Dakhla’s main port
Photograph: Mosa’ab Elshamy/AP
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A woman draped in traditional Sahraoui wear known as Malhafa
Photograph: Mosa’ab Elshamy/AP
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A man eats in a restaurant in central Dakhla
Photograph: Mosa’ab Elshamy/AP
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Construction men at work in an area of Dakhla where consulates have recently opened
Photograph: Mosa’ab Elshamy/AP
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