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Rabat – Spain’s Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares has again voiced his country’s commitment to resolving the long-standing Western Sahara dispute while elevating Morocco’s critical and strategic importance as a key partner.
Making the statements in an interview with El Pais, the Spanish foreign minister unequivocally reiterated his country’s support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative, echoing a “broad consensus among European countries.”
Albares spoke of Spain’s primary objective to find a mutually agreeable solution between the two parties after 50 years of dispute.
“Morocco is a first-degree friendly and strategic partner for Spain and the European Union,” he said, pointing to the multifaceted nature of their relationship.
He recalled Morocco’s crucial role in combating human trafficking networks and terrorism, further solidifying its strategic significance.
The foreign minister also talked about the robust economic ties between the two countries. Current bilateral trade volumes are comparable only to those with the United States and the United Kingdom, demonstrating the depth of their economic connection.
In a significant diplomatic development, Albares referenced recent infrastructural changes, including the reopening of customs facilities in Melilla and the establishment of a customs office in Ceuta – a historic first.
Responding to questions about Spain’s stance, Albares reiterated the country’s support for the work of UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy Staffan de Mistura, expressing hope that a comprehensive solution can be proposed that addresses the concerns of all parties involved.
The minister’s statements reflect Spain’s commitment to maintaining a strong, strategic partnership with Morocco, viewing the country as a reliable ally in addressing major challenges such as migration and counterterrorism efforts.
Read also: Spain Officially Endorses Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara
A critical time
Spain’s show of support comes at a crucial time, following the European country’s recent diplomatic blunder. Reports recently surfaced of photos showing Spain’s King Felipe VI next to Polisario leader Brahim Ghali during the inauguration of Uruguay’s new leftist president last Saturday.
However, political pundits have asserted that these photos do not indicate that Spain’s stance is wavering.
In a recent interview with Morocco World News, Paulino Ros, a journalist and sociology professor in Murcia said that the photos “have no significance whatsoever, Spain’s stance has not changed and is in line with Morocco’s Sahara position.” Furthermore, Ros says that they were likely elevated as an attempted political maneuver on behalf of the Polisario Front.
As the Western Sahara dispute enters its sixth decade, Albares’s comments signal a diplomatic approach focused on dialogue, mutual understanding, and collaborative resolution.
