On Thursday, Morocco strongly reiterated its dedication to fostering a relationship with Spain that is grounded in mutual respect and reciprocal trust. This assertion comes alongside a denunciation of what Morocco perceives as the political exploitation of the Kingdom for internal Spanish political purposes. In a statement addressing the recent developments in Moroccan-Spanish relations, the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Abroad emphasized that Rabat has 'sovereignly chosen' to cultivate a partnership with Madrid based on good neighborliness, political understanding, economic partnership, and security cooperation.
The ministry highlighted that this strategic direction was notably solidified in the Joint Declaration of April 7, 2022, which followed a meeting between King Mohammed VI and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. It is the view of Rabat that this new phase in bilateral relations, characterized by mutual respect, trust, continuous dialogue, and the pursuit of a mutually beneficial partnership, has enabled both nations to advance their common interests while managing their differences 'with serenity and respect.'
Furthermore, the ministry underscored the achievements made in the economic and security domains, noting that Spain is Morocco's primary economic partner, while Morocco stands as Madrid's second-largest trading partner outside the European Union. In terms of security cooperation, Moroccan authorities assert that collaboration between the two countries has been instrumental in saving lives and dismantling terrorist and criminal networks.
Migration Cooperation and Political Instrumentalization
The communiqué also delved into migration issues, with Rabat asserting that its cooperation with Spain in this area has consistently been well-coordinated and effective. In light of the migratory events that transpired in Ceuta at the end of July, the ministry called for a thorough examination to ascertain the circumstances surrounding these events, identify any potential foreign interference or manipulation, and prevent their recurrence. Moroccan authorities have contested any allegations implicating the Kingdom, asserting that no 'fact or report' establishes the involvement of Moroccan authorities.
Rabat has further raised concerns regarding the lack of non-refoulement for irregular migrants, despite the Moroccan government's commitment to readmitting them. Additionally, the ministry highlighted the plight of unaccompanied Moroccan minors present in Spain, stating that efforts have been made to facilitate their return to their families. According to Rabat, responses to these issues ought to be sought from the relevant Spanish authorities.
In a broader context, the Moroccan ministry vehemently criticized certain Spanish political and media circles, accusing them of using Morocco as a pawn in domestic political debates. The statement expressed concern over specific initiatives attributed to Spanish legislative and judicial institutions, warning that these actions could exacerbate misunderstandings between the two nations. 'The Kingdom of Morocco refuses to be a pawn in pre-electoral strategies,' the ministry declared, reaffirming that the country will not accept becoming a 'scapegoat for political vendettas.' Rabat emphasized the enduring nature of the geographical proximity between the two countries, urging political leaders to leverage this relationship as a strategic asset.
Controversy Surrounding Ceuta Events
This Moroccan position comes in response to the massive influx of migrants recorded in Ceuta on July 30 and 31, which has sparked a debate in Spain regarding the circumstances of these events and the actions taken by Moroccan authorities. This discussion was reignited this week following the declassification of documents from Spanish intelligence and security services related to the incidents. According to reports cited by the Spanish press, the National Intelligence Center (CNI) noted on July 30 that no 'proactive reaction' from Moroccan authorities was detected after the situation spiraled out of control. However, other documents proposed various hypotheses that could explain the situation, ranging from a surprise effect and an overwhelming of Moroccan forces to a potential shift in attitude linked to the political context.
Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska has urged caution in interpreting these findings, suggesting that the documents should be thoroughly analyzed and the facts assessed collectively before drawing any 'hasty conclusions.' The Spanish government has also maintained that, while there were reports of calls to cross the border, the unprecedented scale of the arrivals on July 30 and 31 had not been anticipated. During the events, the Spanish Interior Ministry praised the cooperation with Morocco in migration matters and expressed gratitude to Moroccan authorities for their efforts to thwart attempts at irregular migration.
As reported by aa.com.tr.
