Morocco Seals Borders with Spanish Enclaves to Combat Coronavirus Spread

This decision was announced on Thursday by the Spanish prefectures of Ceuta and Melilla, two enclaves located in northern Morocco, which represent the only land borders between Africa and the European Union.

On its Twitter account, the prefecture of Melilla had recalled the closure of the border and had recommended that all citizens of Melilla currently in Morocco return to the city as soon as possible. It also stated that this is a "preventive measure against the coronavirus".

This alert allowed many Spaniards to hastily leave the Kingdom of Morocco, so as not to find themselves stranded there.

In addition, the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that in coordination with Spain, "Morocco has suspended flights to and from Spain and passenger maritime traffic".

It should be noted that Spain is one of the European countries most affected by the coronavirus pandemic, with nearly 7,000 reported cases and at least 190 deaths.