RABAT, Sept 17, 2008 (AFP) - Malawi has withdrawn its recognition of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR), proclaimed by the Polisario Front in the disputed territory of Western Sahara, the MAP agency reported on Wednesday.

'In light of recent developments on the issue of Sahara at the United Nations', Malawi has decided 'to withdraw its recognition of the SADR and to break all relations with it,' Malawian Foreign Affairs Minister Joyce Banda said Tuesday in Rabat, according to MAP.

Malawi wants to encourage the UN-supported negotiations currently underway over Western Sahara, said Banda.

Western Sahara is a former Spanish colony annexed in 1975 by Morocco.

SADR was declared in 1976 by the Polisario Front -- a rebel movement that wants independence for Western Sahara -- which fought a guerrilla war against Rabat's forces before a ceasefire in 1991.

Since the ceasefire, the UN has sponsored talks on four occasions between Rabat and the rebels.

The Polisario Front said in August it wanted to engage in direct talks with Morocco, but requested that the UN replace its special envoy to the Western Sahara.

Spanish daily El Pais reported this month the UN would soon appoint American diplomat Christopher Ross as its new special envoy, to replace Peter van Walsum, whose mandate was not renewed after it expired August 21.

Walsum was accused of favouring Morocco after stating that independence for Western Sahara was 'an unrealistic option.'