Casablanca – Spanish government spokesperson Elma Saiz reaffirmed that Madrid maintains good relations with Morocco amid a controversial visit by Spanish King Felipe VI and his wife Queen Letizia to the occupied city of Ceuta.
Speaking at a press conference following the Council of Ministers meeting, Saiz stressed that Spain and Morocco maintain regular diplomatic contact, describing relations between the neighboring countries as “fluid” and their dialogue as permanent.
The spokesperson said communication between Madrid and Rabat continues at its usual pace, with normal exchanges and a regular frequency of diplomatic dialogue.
Her remarks come amid the Spanish monarchs’ first visit to Ceuta since Felipe ascended to the throne in 2014.
The couple is also scheduled to visit Melilla tomorrow. The previous royal visit to the two cities took place in November 2007, under former King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofía.
Saiz described the royal visit to Ceuta and Melilla as “historic” and “very important.” She also said the trip falls within the “absolute normality” of a visit by the King and Queen to two “Spanish cities.”
The visit comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries, especially a smear campaign from the far right in Spain.
The far right has been accusing Morocco of blackmail since the Ceuta mass crossings of July, when over 70,000 people entered the enclave.
The issue has been weaponized by the far right against Morocco and the Sanchez government.
King Mohammed VI responded to the smear campaign in his speech at the opening of Parliament on October 9. The monarch said the existing model of migration cooperation had become outdated and called for a new approach to address recurring challenges.
He also stressed that Morocco’s migration cooperation with Spain rests on a sovereign choice and a voluntary commitment, adding that Rabat would not be subject to pressure, threats, or blackmail.
