Casablanca – Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares said today that Morocco has committed to taking the necessary measures to prevent a potential mass crossing into Ceuta on September 23.
Albares made the remarks in New York, where he is attending the United Nations General Assembly. He said he remains in near-daily contact with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and that both sides are working to prevent a new attempt to enter the Spanish enclave.
According to Spanish newspaper El País, Albares said Morocco has committed to deploying “all necessary means” to prevent another mass crossing. He said the two countries continue to coordinate on the situation and on measures aimed at preventing a new attempt.
A social media campaign has incited a new mass migration to the occupied city on September 23. Spanish authorities have been monitoring the calls after a mass movement toward the city on July 30 and 31.
Albares said yesterday that the latest messages circulating online had not generated the same level of response as those linked to the July movement. He also accused human trafficking networks of spreading misinformation and said Spanish authorities were working to counter those messages.
Read also: Spain, Morocco Prepare for Possible September 23 Mass Crossing Attempt in Ceuta
Morocco and Spain have increased coordination on migration and border security in recent years, with Rabat playing a key role in preventing irregular crossings toward the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla.
The latest situation comes after the July mass crossing toward Ceuta. Moroccan authorities have continued efforts to prevent irregular crossings toward Ceuta and Melilla, including increased security measures along routes leading toward the two cities.
Morocco has also maintained close coordination with Spain on migration and border security. The two countries have continued regular communication on preventing irregular crossings and managing migration movements.
Albares is also expected to meet Bourita in New York during the UN General Assembly. Their discussions are expected to include the situation in Ceuta and the management of migration between Morocco and Spain.
