Tri-National Agreement to Enhance Judicial Collaboration
This Friday, a significant Memorandum of Understanding was signed in Rabat by the Justice Ministers of Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, aimed at addressing the challenges associated with the joint organization of the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The Spanish government views this monumental event as an invaluable opportunity to enhance trilateral cooperation, conveying a powerful message to the world: neighboring countries, despite their differences, can respect each other, collaborate effectively, and prioritize peace.
The agreement was officially signed by Spain's Justice Minister Félix Bolaños, Portugal's Justice Minister Rita Júdice, and Morocco's Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi. This trilateral meeting marks a pivotal moment as these nations prepare to co-host the World Cup.
Objectives and Areas of Cooperation
According to a statement from the Spanish Ministry of Justice, this memorandum aims to strengthen transnational judicial cooperation and promote coordinated actions from 2026 to 2030, with the possibility of review and extension if all three countries agree. It builds upon prior bilateral agreements established between Morocco and Portugal in January 2025, and between Morocco and Spain in March of the previous year, and will be effective until December 31, 2030. The memorandum outlines seven areas of cooperation, which include mutual judicial assistance, coordination among central authorities, the advancement of digital justice, and the enhancement of efforts against crime and cybercrime.
Following the signing, Bolaños highlighted that this comprehensive cooperation framework is designed to respond effectively to the challenges posed by organizing a major event like the World Cup. He emphasized that it solidifies the trust-based relationships among the three countries, mentioning Spain's contribution of its extensive experience, strategic position, and role as a direct link between Morocco and the European Union.
Moreover, the Ministry of Justice notes that this World Cup represents a unique opportunity to bolster trilateral cooperation, consolidate existing mechanisms, and showcase the maturity of diplomatic relations. It will also facilitate the development of digital means for the rapid and secure exchange of requests, documents, and judicial information related to the tournament.
Bolaños also reflected on the significance of this World Cup, which will be the first to be held across two different continents and organized by three countries with diverse cultures, traditions, and histories. He stressed that these nations are capable of working together, fostering friendship and brotherly relations, and serving as a model for the world. Amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, he asserted that this collaboration sends a strong message that neighbors can respect one another, cooperate, and work together, emphasizing the importance of peace, diplomacy, dialogue, agreements, international law, and human rights values. Bolaños expressed his hope that the fragile truce declared could evolve into lasting peace and extend to Lebanon.
In closing, the minister conveyed to his Moroccan counterpart and the Moroccan people his condemnation of the xenophobic chants heard during the friendly match between Spain and Egypt on March 31, where some fans shouted unacceptable phrases. He underscored that such chants do not represent the Spanish people, reiterating that Spain is a tolerant and open country that utterly rejects hatred, xenophobia, and any form of insult towards those who are different.
As reported by marca.com.
