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Rabat – Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs Jose Manuel has said he is not satisfied with the cooperation with Morocco on irregular migration.
In a press statement, Albares said there are “many positive aspects” to reinforce ties with Morocco, referencing King Mohammed VI’s August speech.
In the speech, King Mohammed VI spoke optimistically about efforts to restore the normalcy of Spain-Morocco diplomatic relations after months of tension.
Relations between the two countries witnessed a political crisis after Spain allowed Polisario leader Brahim Ghali to enter its territory for hospitalization.
Morocco denounced the Spanish decision, emphasizing that it is against the spirit of cooperation.
Since then, the Spanish government has been attempting to restore normal relations and cooperation between its Moroccan counterpart.
Albares said there is “fluidity” in contacts with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita.
He added that both are moved by “the spirit of advancing in building a cooperation that is dense, rich, and encompasses many aspects.”
The Spanish FM recalled his country’s assistance to and collaboration with Morocco on curbing irregular migration. to avoid entries to the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla.
“I am not satisfied with that, we have to go further,” he said, appearing to reference news that irregular migrants continue to reach Spain by crossing to the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla
Albares’s comments come on the heels of heavy criticism over his apparent failure to substantially restore Spain-Moroccan relations after unprecedented tensions in recent months.
Spain’s People’s Party (PP) has repeatedly lashed out at Albares and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez for not being able to end the diplomatic crisis between Spain and Morocco.
The PP sees that neither Albares nor Pedro Sanchez has a clear agenda to deal with allies and secure cooperation.
“Spain is not respected abroad today, “ PP’s international secretary Valentina Martinez said earlier this week, arguing that Spanish foreing policy has been “disappointing” in the past six months.
