Strengthening Strategic Partnerships
On September 10, 2026, Morocco reiterated its commitment to maintaining a strategic partnership with Spain, while expressing concerns regarding certain political, legislative, and media positions taken by Spain that affect bilateral relations, particularly in the realm of immigration. The Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Abroad released a statement emphasizing Morocco's sovereign decision to engage with Madrid through a lens of good neighborliness, political dialogue, economic partnership, and security cooperation. This commitment has been notably reinforced by the joint declaration made on April 7, 2022, during a meeting between King Mohammed VI and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.
The ministry highlighted that this new phase of relations is built on mutual respect, reciprocal trust, ongoing dialogue, and the pursuit of mutually beneficial partnerships. According to Rabat, this strategy has facilitated the strengthening of convergences between the two countries while enabling them to address their disputes with discretion. The statement further underscored the achievements made across various sectors, indicating that Spain is Morocco's primary economic partner, while Morocco stands as the second largest trading partner for Spain outside the European Union. Security cooperation was also highlighted, with Rabat noting successful operations that have allegedly saved lives and dismantled terrorist and criminal networks.
Migration Cooperation: A Central Point of Tension
Despite these advancements, the issue of migration cooperation remains a significant point of contention. The Moroccan Ministry believes that the events that transpired in July warrant a thorough examination to ascertain the circumstances involved, identify any potential interferences, and prevent their recurrence. Morocco contests allegations directed at its authorities regarding the treatment of irregular migrants and raises questions about the retention of these individuals in Spain, despite Morocco's commitment to readmit them. The ministry also queries the continued presence of unaccompanied minors in Spain, claiming to have requested their return to their families.
Additionally, Morocco has condemned the manipulation of its position by certain Spanish political and media actors within the context of their internal debates, criticizing specific parliamentary and judicial initiatives that it perceives as fostering distrust between the two neighboring countries. In conclusion, Rabat has firmly stated its refusal to be used as a 'pre-electoral bargaining chip' or scapegoat in political disputes, urging for the preservation of the gains made since 2022. The ministry advocates for prioritizing responsibility and strategic vision in light of the geographical proximity that necessitates cooperation between the two nations.
As reported by lebrief.ma.
