Morocco's Ongoing Assertion Over Ceuta and Melilla
Morocco remains steadfast in its claim over the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla, as articulated by the Moroccan Minister of Justice, Abdellatif Ouahbi. In a recent interview with Asharq News, Ouahbi emphasized that Rabat continues to raise this issue in discussions with Spain, reaffirming Morocco's long-term strategy aimed at reclaiming these territories. He stated, "This matter is still on the table. Each time we meet with the Spaniards, we bring it up," highlighting the unwavering stance of Morocco regarding its territorial aspirations.
Ouahbi elaborated that Morocco's approach involves a sustained advocacy for its claim without anticipating an immediate resolution. He clarified, "Our policy regarding this issue is of long breath," underscoring the intent to resolve the matter through dialogue. This assertion came in response to inquiries about whether the issue of Ceuta and Melilla might resurface and if Morocco is considering regaining sovereignty over these cities. While he refrained from discussing specific timelines or mechanisms for achieving this goal, he did not soften Rabat's position.
Migration Issues and Regional Relations
This interview occurred shortly after a significant migration crisis in Ceuta, with the situation of Moroccan minors remaining in the city being a pressing concern for both Madrid and Rabat. Ouahbi addressed one of the critical questions that emerged during this crisis: whether Morocco is using mass immigration as a leverage tool against Spain. He firmly rejected the notion that Morocco employs migration pressure to gain political, economic, or territorial concessions, asserting that the country maintains good relations with Spain and the European Union and does not need to resort to immigration for its interests. "We have never used this issue as a tool and we have no intention of doing so," he stated.
Critically, Ouahbi pointed out what he perceives as contradictions within European migration policies. He challenged Spain's requests for Morocco to control irregular departures while simultaneously allowing those who reach Spanish territory to access legal status or protective mechanisms. He questioned, "Do they want to combat irregular immigration or merely issue slogans that contradict their actions in practice?" This perspective reflects a call for a more coordinated strategy among European countries to manage immigration comprehensively rather than placing the burden solely on Morocco.
Moreover, the minister highlighted that irregular immigration is just one facet of a broader issue, suggesting that behind these migration routes operate networks that exploit the vulnerabilities of those attempting to reach Europe. He warned, "What lies behind irregular immigration is more dangerous than the immigration itself," citing human trafficking, sexual exploitation of minors, and organ trafficking as significant concerns.
Addressing the situation of Moroccan minors in Spain, Ouahbi reiterated a strong demand for their return to Morocco, insisting that they should be reunited with their families. He emphasized, "We do not renounce our children. We want and demand that our children return to Morocco," framing the issue not merely in legal terms but as a matter of familial and cultural identity.
The Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, has attributed the crisis in Ceuta to human trafficking networks, reiterating that Morocco is not a threat but rather a reliable partner. In light of this, Ouahbi's arguments take on a political dimension as he asserts that Moroccan children should not remain in Spain to fulfill the demographic needs of the country. He firmly stated, "We are not a state destined to resolve the demographic problem of any other country," reinforcing the need for children to grow up within their families and cultural contexts.
Ultimately, the conversation around immigration and territorial claims underscores the intricate relationship between Morocco and Spain, necessitating a nuanced understanding of both countries' positions and the broader implications for regional stability and cooperation.
As reported by infobae.com.
