Morocco Extends Border Closure with Spanish Enclaves Amid Customs Dispute

Morocco has decided to extend the closure of the borders with Ceuta and Melilla for one month because it would not be willing to reopen the commercial customs in Melilla and create a new one in Ceuta, sources close to the file told La Razón.

To read: Spain Extends Border Closure with Morocco to May 15, Prepares for Gradual Reopening

According to the same sources, Morocco does not object to the reopening of the borders to allow the free movement of people. But the problem would lie in the circulation of goods due to its claims on the two autonomous cities. Rabat prefers that the goods pass through its ports near Ceuta and Melilla, a solution that risks further suffocating the two cities.

To read: Morocco Eyes Next Territorial Goal: Ceuta and Melilla After Western Sahara Push

Since the resumption of diplomatic relations with Spain, Morocco has put its annexationist intentions on the two cities on hold, but has not totally renounced this project.