Morocco's Foreign Minister, Nasser Bourita, stated that the country's relationship with Spain will continue to be guided by the principles outlined in the April 2022 Joint Declaration. This declaration was adopted after discussions between King Mohammed VI and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. The declaration emphasizes partnership, mutual respect, and dialogue, allowing both countries to focus on areas of agreement while managing disagreements through consultation.
Bourita made these comments during a meeting with his Spanish counterpart, José Manuel Albares, on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. The two ministers discussed various issues, including migration, and reaffirmed their commitment to managing disagreements through dialogue and consultation. This approach enables both countries to address differences in a spirit of good-neighborliness and cooperation.
One of the key issues discussed was the return of irregular migrants and unaccompanied minors. Bourita emphasized that Morocco's position on this matter remains clear: if these individuals are not returned, responsibility lies with Spain rather than Morocco. He attributed the continued difficulties surrounding returns to "controversies, obstacles, and difficulties" on the Spanish side.
The comments come after weeks of tensions surrounding migration and the status of Ceuta and Melilla. Spanish authorities have been coordinating with Morocco following the mass movement toward Ceuta at the end of July. Albares has maintained regular contact with Bourita over migration and border security, and has stated that Spain will work with "any Moroccan government" to maintain good relations with Rabat.
However, Bourita criticized statements by Spanish political figures targeting Morocco, arguing that partnership cannot be built on unfounded indictments and sterile rhetoric. He emphasized that migration, the bilateral partnership, and the neighborhood relationship cannot be managed through accusations or political one-upmanship. Some Spanish political figures have made statements that Bourita believes do not appreciate the value of the partnership or understand Morocco's position on migration.
Despite these challenges, Bourita remains committed to using dialogue and consultation to manage disagreements while preserving cooperation in areas of shared interest. He highlighted that there are "many issues" on which both sides agree and can make progress. The two countries should continue to work together to address common challenges and promote mutual understanding.
The relationship between Morocco and Spain has been further reinforced by recent statements from Spanish officials. Spain's Agriculture Minister, Luis Planas, backed continued EU trade agreements with Morocco, emphasizing the importance of the relationship between Rabat and Madrid. Against this backdrop, Bourita and Albares are expected to continue working together to strengthen bilateral ties and address common challenges.
Key points
- Morocco and Spain's relationship remains guided by the 2022 Joint Declaration, emphasizing partnership, mutual respect, and dialogue.
- The two countries have committed to managing disagreements through consultation and dialogue.
- Morocco's Foreign Minister, Nasser Bourita, emphasized that responsibility for the return of irregular migrants and unaccompanied minors lies with Spain.
