Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita stated on Thursday in New York that the failure to return irregular migrants and minors to their countries of origin is solely Spain's responsibility. This statement comes after a meeting with his Spanish counterpart, José Manuel Albares, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. Bourita emphasized that Morocco's position on returning all irregular migrants and unaccompanied minors is clear.
According to Bourita, the process of returning migrants involves identifying individuals, issuing consular laissez-passer, and organizing transfers, which are primarily the responsibility of the authorities in the country where the migrants are located. He implied that the delay lies in Spain's execution of these procedures rather than in Morocco's cooperation. This procedural and political argument highlights the complexities of managing migration flows between the two countries.
Bourita also criticized Spanish politicians for making unfounded accusations against Morocco. He stressed that effective partnership requires avoiding inflammatory rhetoric and unsubstantiated claims. The minister believes that migration, partnership, and neighborhood relations cannot be managed through provocative statements. This statement reflects the tensions in the bilateral relationship over migration issues.
The controversy over migrant returns comes after a significant influx of people crossed the border into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta in late July, with over 70,000 individuals making the journey. Since August 10, the Spanish government has reported 5,321 voluntary returns. The issue has become a domestic political concern in Spain, with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez denying any Moroccan responsibility and accusing the conservative opposition of instrumentalizing the issue.
The European Parliament has also weighed in on the issue, adopting a resolution calling on Rabat and Madrid to accelerate deportation procedures. This development adds to the pressure on both countries to find a solution to the migration crisis. Morocco and Spain have a partnership on migration management, established in 2022, which Bourita reiterated is still in effect.
However, Bourita's comments suggest that the implementation of this partnership is being hindered by the current polemics. The minister's statements reflect the complexities of international cooperation on migration issues, where countries often have competing priorities and narratives. The situation remains a challenge for both Morocco and Spain to navigate.
The issue of migrant returns is likely to continue affecting relations between Morocco and Spain. Both countries will need to work together to find a sustainable solution that balances their respective concerns and obligations. The international community, including the European Union, will be watching closely for progress on this issue.
Key points
- Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita says Spain is responsible for not returning irregular migrants and minors.
- The European Parliament has adopted a resolution calling on Morocco and Spain to accelerate deportation procedures.
- Morocco and Spain have a partnership on migration management, established in 2022.
