Record-Breaking Influx: Over 1.1 Million Moroccans Enter via Spanish Ports for Annual Return

"We are at record figures that make us predict that on September 15, when we finish the operation, we will be facing the Operation with the largest number of shipments in its 35-year history," said Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska during the follow-up and coordination meeting of the Transit Operation he chaired on Monday at the headquarters of the Directorate General of Civil Protection and Emergencies.

This meeting also made it possible to take stock of the system and to ensure that all arrangements are in place to manage the significant influx of Moroccans from Europe expected between August 1 and 4. Grande-Marlaska took the opportunity to thank the Directorate General of Civil Protection and Emergencies for having strengthened the staff dedicated to the Operation, in anticipation of the record influx this year. More than 27,000 people are mobilized to ensure the smooth running of the Operation.

"The significant increase in the number of passengers and vehicles has not complicated the operation, which is proceeding normally and without major incidents," added the Interior Minister, who did not fail to salute "the close collaboration" with Morocco. Operation Marhaba allows Moroccans from Europe to reach Morocco via the Spanish, French and Italian ports to spend their summer holidays. It started on June 13 this year and ends on September 15.