Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Buriṭa has attributed the delay in deporting irregular migrants and unaccompanied minors from Ceuta to Spain. In a statement made in New York, Buriṭa emphasized that Morocco is not obstructing the return of these individuals, but rather, the challenges lie with the Spanish side. He made these comments following a meeting with his Spanish counterpart, José Manuel Albares, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.
The meeting between Buriṭa and Albares aimed to address the issue of migrants still in Ceuta after a significant influx in late July. This development reignited the migration topic in Moroccan-Spanish relations. According to Buriṭa, the return process is facing obstacles and complexities from the Spanish side, and not due to a lack of willingness from Moroccan authorities. He stressed that if migrants and minors are not being returned, the question should be directed to Spain, not Morocco.
Albares, on the other hand, stated that Morocco has renewed its full cooperation to expedite the return of individuals not eligible for asylum or international protection. This reaffirms the continued coordination between Rabat and Madrid on migration, despite emerging disagreements over the reasons for delays in some deportation operations. The Spanish Foreign Ministry has not provided a direct response to Buriṭa's claims of obstacles from the Spanish side.
The issue of unaccompanied minors remains particularly sensitive due to the legal and social procedures they undergo in Spain before a decision is made regarding their deportation. Reports from Spanish media indicate that around 10,000 individuals remain in Ceuta after the recent influx, highlighting the ongoing need for coordination between Moroccan and Spanish authorities to address the situation.
This development occurs within the context of Moroccan-Spanish relations, which have seen increased rapprochement and cooperation in recent years, particularly in security, migration, and border control. The two countries re-launched their bilateral relations based on a joint declaration issued in 2022. Buriṭa reiterated that Morocco does not pose obstacles to the return of irregular migrants and minors.
The practical test of this coordination will be the implementation of deportation operations on the ground. The continued collaboration between Morocco and Spain in this matter remains crucial. According to Buriṭa, Morocco's stance is clear: it does not hinder the return of these individuals, and it is up to Spain to facilitate the process.
The situation underscores the complexities of managing migration flows and the importance of bilateral cooperation in addressing such challenges. Both countries must work together to find a resolution that balances their respective interests and obligations. The next steps in this process will likely determine the trajectory of Moroccan-Spanish relations in the near term.
Key points
- Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Buriṭa blames Spain for delays in deporting irregular migrants and unaccompanied minors from Ceuta.
- Spain and Morocco have reaffirmed their cooperation on migration issues, despite emerging disagreements over deportation operations.
- The situation in Ceuta highlights the ongoing challenges in managing migration flows and the need for continued bilateral cooperation.
