Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares has stated that his country categorically rejects the possibility of shared sovereignty with Morocco on the cities of Ceuta and Melilla. In an interview with La Sexta's Al Rojo Vivo program on September 22 in New York, Albares emphasized that the sovereignty of these cities is not a subject for negotiation with Rabat. He described the idea of shared sovereignty as "absurd and ridiculous."
Albares' comments come as the issue of Ceuta and Melilla has resurfaced in Moroccan-Spanish relations, following statements from Moroccan officials about the future of the cities and a call for dialogue on their status. The Spanish minister stressed that Ceuta and Melilla are Spanish and part of the European Union, reaffirming that this matter is not open for discussion and will not be part of any dialogue with Morocco.
According to Albares, Spain does not engage in discussions with Morocco or any other party regarding its territorial integrity. He underscored that this topic has not been and will not be discussed. The minister's statements were made during his participation in the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where he also had a scheduled meeting with his Moroccan counterpart, Nasser Bourita, to discuss various bilateral issues.
Despite rejecting discussions on sovereignty, Albares indicated that this does not imply a halt in dialogue with Morocco. He mentioned ongoing communications between the two countries on other matters, particularly migration and the situation in Ceuta. The minister had previously announced that he was in contact with Bourita, highlighting the importance of maintaining channels of communication.
The cities of Ceuta and Melilla have been a point of contention in Moroccan-Spanish relations for years. Morocco has historically claimed sovereignty over the cities, which are located on the north coast of Africa. Spain has maintained control over Ceuta and Melilla since the 15th century, and their status has been a subject of diplomatic tension between the two countries.
Albares' firm stance on the sovereignty of Ceuta and Melilla reflects the Spanish government's commitment to maintaining its territorial integrity. His comments are seen as a reaffirmation of Spain's position on the matter, which has been consistent over the years. The issue remains a sensitive topic in bilateral relations, with Morocco continuing to assert its claims over the cities.
The rejection of shared sovereignty by Spain may impact future diplomatic efforts between Morocco and Spain, particularly on issues related to migration and regional cooperation. However, Albares' emphasis on ongoing dialogue suggests that the two countries will continue to engage on other matters of mutual interest. The situation remains a complex aspect of Moroccan-Spanish relations, with both countries seeking to balance their interests and positions.
Key points
- Spain's Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares rejects the idea of shared sovereignty with Morocco on Ceuta and Melilla.
- Albares emphasizes that the sovereignty of Ceuta and Melilla is not open for negotiation.
- Despite this, Spain will continue to engage in dialogue with Morocco on other bilateral issues.
