Sánchez Defends Ties With Morocco Despite Migrant Crisis and Espionage Suspicions
Pedro Sánchez rules out a break in relations between Europe and Morocco despite the migration crisis in Ceuta. Asked about tensions with Rabat and espionage suspicions, the Spanish prime minister defends bilateral cooperation and says 900 migrants were returned to the Kingdom in one week.
“We have demanded measures and investigations in Morocco.” Pedro Sánchez acknowledges disagreements with Rabat but refuses to go as far as a diplomatic break. Asked about the mass arrivals of migrants in Ceuta and suspicions involving Pegasus spyware, he says such a decision would be a mistake for Spain and the European Union.
On Bladi.net : Is Morocco a reliable partner? Spain contradicts itself amid the Ceuta crisis
In an interview published Friday, October 9, by elDiario.es, the Spanish prime minister cites security cooperation, particularly in the fight against terrorism, as well as the large Moroccan community living in Spain. He also points out that many Spaniards live in Morocco.
“I don’t think it would be smart for Europe to break off its strategic relationship with Morocco,” he says, as the People’s Party calls for a tougher stance toward Rabat.
Sánchez nevertheless maintains Madrid’s position on Ceuta and Melilla, reaffirming Spanish sovereignty over the two cities.
900 migrants returned to Morocco in one week
The prime minister also provides an updated tally of the migration crisis that took place on July 30 and 31. According to him, 900 migrants returned to Morocco in the week before the interview. He says Spanish authorities are also continuing to relocate those still in Ceuta.
Asked about allegations that Spanish military personnel used violence against migrants, Sánchez confirms that an investigation is underway within the armed forces. If the allegations are substantiated, he says, those responsible must not go unpunished.
On Bladi.net : After Ceuta, Europe Wants to Pay Morocco More to Tighten Border Controls
On border management, the prime minister also defends working with NGOs to identify migrants and review applications for international protection. He says he wants to shorten some administrative procedures without removing the rights of those concerned.
As for relations with Rabat, Sánchez acknowledges that migration tensions will persist because of economic differences between the two shores. His government therefore intends to continue border controls, humanitarian reception and cooperation with Morocco at the same time.
