The European Union (EU) is keen on upholding the framework of its fishing partnership with Morocco, although no specific date has been set to resume negotiations. In a statement provided to Hespress, the European Commission confirmed that Brussels remains willing to initiate discussions aimed at establishing a new Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement (SFPA) as soon as Morocco is prepared to engage in talks.
The Commission emphasized the significance it places on its relationship with Morocco, describing it as an "old, comprehensive, and deep" partnership. It has reiterated its intention to commence negotiations "as soon as possible" regarding a new agreement. However, the timeline for these discussions remains uncertain. A spokesperson for the European Commission stated, "There is currently no timetable for negotiation cycles or technical discussions. We are ready to negotiate when Morocco is ready to do so."
The State of Resources at the Heart of Future Discussions
While awaiting a possible resumption of talks, Brussels has conducted a retrospective and prospective assessment of the protocol that previously linked the European Union with Morocco, in line with the requirements of the Common Fisheries Policy. This evaluation focused on the outcomes achieved under the previous protocol and identified areas for improvement. It is expected to serve as a "basis" for European reflections ahead of the forthcoming negotiations.
Another crucial aspect that will influence discussions is the status of fishery resources. The Commission believes that future negotiations will need to address the "decline in the state of many fish stocks targeted by the European fleet." Nonetheless, Brussels remains committed to seeking a compromise with Rabat, with a spokesperson clarifying, "The European Union intends to work hand in hand with our Moroccan partners to develop an agreement that complies with the rulings of the Court of Justice of the European Union, ensuring fair and equitable outcomes for all parties involved." This reference to the decisions made by the European Court of Justice is a key parameter in shaping the future cooperation framework, especially since the previous protocol expired in July 2024.
Spain Awaits Solutions for Its Fishing Fleet
The situation remains particularly sensitive in Spain, where a segment of the fishing fleet has been directly impacted by the lack of renewal of the agreement with Rabat. When questioned about the concerns raised by professionals and organizations representing the fishing sector within the European Union, especially in Spain, the Commission assured that it is maintaining "close contact" with Madrid and the relevant sector. Additionally, Brussels recalled that assistance has previously been provided through the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) and that efforts continue to explore alternative fishing opportunities for the affected fleets.
The expiration of the protocol has indeed sparked significant concerns within the Spanish sector, which is considered the most affected by this interruption. The Spanish Confederation of Fisheries (CEPESCA) has repeatedly urged European legislators to work towards establishing conditions that would enable the renewal of the protocol attached to the fishing agreement between Morocco and the European Union. This document, which expired in July 2024, allowed European vessels, particularly those from Spain, to fish in Moroccan waters.
In a statement, the Spanish professional organization warned about the consequences of failing to renew the agreement for fleets with limited fallback options, specifically citing Spanish seine vessels and bottom longliners primarily based in Andalusian ports such as Barbate, Conil, and Tarifa. CEPESCA emphasized that the fisheries accessible under the agreement with Morocco have significantly contributed to supplying the European market, playing a "crucial role in providing millions of meals daily to the European Union." At this point, Brussels has not established any deadlines for the potential resumption of negotiations; however, the European Commission remains prepared to engage in discussions with Rabat, aiming to achieve a new agreement that reconciles the sustainability imperatives of fishery resources, the requirements arising from the rulings of European justice, and the interests of all parties involved.
