King Mohammed VI of Morocco has urged a review of the country's cooperation with Spain on migration, emphasizing the need to maintain positive outcomes achieved in recent years. According to a report by Spanish newspaper El Español, the King made the call in a speech before the Spanish parliament, where he highlighted the importance of developing this cooperation to address the challenges posed by migration. The King stressed that the current model of cooperation has reached its limits and is no longer effective in addressing the complexities of migration.
The King noted that despite progress made in coordinating efforts between Rabat and Madrid, particularly in combating human trafficking, there are still significant challenges to be addressed. He pointed out that some legal provisions have become outdated, and certain judicial decisions have not taken into account the reality of managing this complex issue. This, he argued, hinders coordination and makes it difficult to combat human trafficking networks.
The King also criticized statements made by some Spanish politicians and media outlets, which he said were exploiting the migration issue for domestic political gain. He emphasized that partnership between countries is a sovereign choice and a voluntary commitment, and it should not be subject to pressure, threats, or blackmail. This message comes in the context of recent tensions between Morocco and Spain over the issue of migration.
The King's speech was seen as a significant development in Morocco's relations with Spain, with the monarch emphasizing the depth of strategic relations between the two countries. He announced that Morocco will present a new strategic document to its Spanish partners, based on three key pillars: joint development, economic competitiveness, and regional stability. This new approach aims to expand the discussion on migration beyond security concerns and border control.
The new Moroccan approach seeks to address the root causes of migration, including investment, development, and job creation. According to El Español, Morocco is not opposed to cooperation with Spain but is calling for a restructuring of this cooperation to make it more effective and based on mutual respect and reciprocity, without political manipulation. The King's message was seen as a call for a more comprehensive and sustainable approach to migration.
The issue of migration has been a point of contention between Morocco and Spain in recent years, with Spain facing criticism for its handling of migration flows. The King's speech comes at a time when Morocco is seeking to strengthen its relations with Spain and other European countries, while also addressing the challenges posed by migration. The new strategic document is expected to provide a framework for cooperation between Morocco and Spain on migration and other issues.
The developments in Morocco's relations with Spain come as the European Union is seeking to strengthen its cooperation with countries of origin and transit on migration issues. The King's call for a review of cooperation on migration is seen as a significant step towards a more comprehensive and sustainable approach to this complex issue. The outcome of this review is expected to have significant implications for Morocco's relations with Spain and other European countries.
Key points
- King Mohammed VI calls for a review of Morocco's cooperation with Spain on migration issues.
- The King emphasizes the need for a more comprehensive approach to migration, addressing root causes such as investment, development, and job creation.
- Morocco seeks a restructuring of cooperation with Spain to make it more effective and based on mutual respect and reciprocity.
