Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita stated on September 24 in New York that the return of illegal migrants and unaccompanied minors is exclusively Spain's responsibility if they are not returned. This statement was made after talks with his Spanish counterpart, José Manuel Albares, on the sidelines of the 81st UN General Assembly. Bourita emphasized Morocco's clear stance on the return of all illegal migrants and unaccompanied minors.
Bourita stressed that the migration crisis and partnership with Spain should not be managed through polemics, unfounded accusations, and sterile rhetoric. He expressed disappointment that some Spanish political actors do not understand the value of the partnership between Morocco and Spain, nor do they have sufficient knowledge of Morocco's current situation and its management of migration issues.
The Moroccan minister highlighted that the partnership between Morocco and Spain is based on the principles of mutual respect, dialogue, and cooperation, as outlined in the joint declaration of April 2022. This declaration was adopted after discussions between King Mohammed VI and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. Bourita emphasized the importance of focusing on areas of agreement and resolving points of divergence through dialogue and consultation.
Bourita also noted that there are many areas where Morocco and Spain agree and can make progress. He underlined the need for a spirit of good neighborliness and cooperation to guide their relations. The minister's statements come amid a complex migration crisis and strained relations between Morocco and Spain.
The migration crisis has been a contentious issue between Morocco and Spain, with Morocco accusing Spain of not taking sufficient responsibility for the migrants. Bourita's statements reflect Morocco's frustration with the situation and its desire to manage the crisis through cooperation and dialogue.
The relations between Morocco and Spain have been sensitive, particularly after Spain's decision to welcome the leader of the Polisario Front, Brahim Ghali, in April 2021. Morocco had expressed its disapproval of the move, which led to a significant deterioration in relations between the two countries.
Despite the challenges, Bourita expressed hope that Morocco and Spain can work together to address their common concerns, including migration and security issues. He emphasized the importance of a strong partnership between the two countries, based on mutual respect and cooperation.
Key points
- Morocco's Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita emphasizes that the return of illegal migrants and unaccompanied minors is Spain's responsibility.
- Bourita stresses the need for cooperation and dialogue to manage the migration crisis and improve relations with Spain.
- The partnership between Morocco and Spain is based on mutual respect, dialogue, and cooperation, as outlined in the joint declaration of April 2022.
