Spain Collaborates with Morocco for Repatriation of Minors
In a recent statement from Almería, Andalusia, Félix Bolaños, the Minister of the Presidency, Justice, and Relations with the Courts, emphasized Spain's commitment to working alongside the Moroccan government to facilitate the repatriation of unaccompanied minors currently residing in Ceuta. The initiative aims to ensure that a group of 1,527 identified minors can reunite with their families in Morocco. The initiative is also supported by the local administration of Ceuta, which is focused on providing a humane reception that respects human rights. Bolaños assured that the Spanish government will uphold human rights, prioritize the best interests of the minors, and act with compassion throughout this process.
Meanwhile, José Manuel Albares, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union, and Cooperation, visited Ceuta to meet with the local government president, Juan Jesús Vivas. Their discussions revolved around the challenges at the border, the immediate needs of the city, and ongoing cooperation with Morocco, alongside potential support from European entities. Albares expressed his solidarity with the authorities and residents of Ceuta and Melilla, as well as with the security forces and military personnel stationed in both cities. He noted that the Foreign Ministry is actively addressing the crisis by facilitating the return of individuals who have entered Spain irregularly, combating misinformation circulating on social media, and reinforcing border controls to ensure security.
Challenges and Political Reactions
Albares highlighted the necessity for enhanced support to the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla, stressing that the integrity of the Schengen area is effectively maintained in these regions. He clarified that both cities operate under a unique control regime that includes a dual filtering system: one at the Moroccan border and another within the Schengen framework for departures to the mainland. He warned potential migrants from Africa against attempting to enter Ceuta and Melilla illegally, as they would be promptly returned to their countries of origin.
In a related political reaction, the European Left Party (PIE) condemned what it termed a 'criminal maneuver orchestrated by the Moroccan monarchy' regarding the events in Ceuta. The PIE, which includes United Left and the Communist Party of Spain (PCE), criticized the European administration for its double standards, praising Morocco as a 'pillar of stability' while overlooking its actions in Western Sahara. They described King Mohammed VI of Morocco as the 'monarch of misery', benefiting from the suffering and exodus of his own people. The PIE also pointed out that the recent influx of over 70,000 individuals within just 24 hours led to a collapse of reception services, labeling it not as an accident but a deliberate act by Moroccan authorities following a visit from Spanish President Pedro Sánchez to Algeria.
As reported by prensa-latina.cu.
