King Mohammed VI Calls for Reevaluation of Migration Partnership with Spain
In a significant address delivered on October 9, 2026, King Mohammed VI of Morocco articulated his concerns regarding the current model of migration cooperation with Spain, suggesting that it has reached its limits. Speaking to members of both Houses of Parliament in Rabat during the opening of the first session of the 12th legislature, the king emphasized the achievements made in the partnership with Madrid, particularly in combating irregular immigration. However, he also highlighted ongoing legal and political challenges that continue to hinder effective cooperation.
King Mohammed VI candidly stated, "We must recognize with courage and objectivity that, in this matter, the current model of cooperation has reached its limits." He pointed to outdated legal provisions and judicial decisions that he believes obstruct the repatriation of minors and individuals he accuses of misusing refugee status. According to the king, these obstacles ultimately aid criminal networks involved in irregular immigration.
Morocco Rejects Political Pressures
Addressing the tensions that have marred relations with Spain, the Moroccan monarch condemned statements from certain political and media circles, which he claims have manipulated the migration issue for their own agendas. King Mohammed VI asserted that the partnership with Madrid is a "sovereign choice" and a "voluntary commitment," firmly rejecting any forms of pressure, threats, or blackmail in the bilateral relationship.
Furthermore, the king defended Morocco's role in managing migration flows, asserting that the Kingdom has proven to be a reliable international partner and deserves reciprocal treatment from its allies. In light of these developments, he announced that Morocco will present its partners with a document outlining a new strategic vision for cooperation that emphasizes co-development, economic competitiveness, and regional stability. This initiative reflects Rabat's intention to redefine the terms of its migration partnership with Madrid, moving beyond mere border control and readmission protocols.
These remarks come in the wake of a recent migration crisis in Ceuta, a Spanish enclave located on Morocco's northern coast, where tens of thousands of migrants crossed the border in late July, heightening political tensions in Spain and reigniting discussions about security and migration cooperation with Morocco. The Spanish government indicated in September that it had no solid evidence linking Moroccan authorities to the facilitation of these mass arrivals, although investigations are ongoing. King Mohammed VI's statements also precede the anticipated visit of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia to Ceuta and Melilla, scheduled for October 13. As of now, no official response from the Spanish government directly related to Friday's speech has been confirmed.
As reported by aa.com.tr.
