Morocco Weighs Summer Return for Diaspora Amid COVID-19 Uncertainty

This operation is launched in mid-June each year. At the moment, nothing indicates that the Strait crossing from the Spanish side will be effective this year. In Madrid, economic activity has gradually resumed. And the Spanish authorities are counting on the holding of the Marhaba 2020 operation to revive its economy.

The Spanish Minister of the Interior, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, had even announced that this operation should be delayed. In addition, a meeting could be held by videoconference on June 10 between the countries concerned: Morocco, Spain, France, Italy, Germany, etc.

On the Rabat side, the focus is not on organizing this operation but rather on repatriating its nationals stranded abroad due to the closure of air traffic and borders and on managing covid-19. But Moroccans, especially their relatives and tourism operators, are awaiting the return of MREs and their foreign exchange. These operators are counting on them and nationals to get a good financial health during the summer season.

On the Spanish side, the Spanish ports are active. The Algeciras terminal has been equipped with thermal cameras in the terminals destined for Tangier-Med and Ceuta. The Spanish authorities, for their part, are trying to convince on the holding of this operation in compliance with the necessary precautionary measures. It remains to be seen whether the stakeholders will agree to ensure that the Marhaba 2020 operation takes place.