Spain-Morocco Tensions Threaten EU Fishing Agreement, Spanish Fishermen Worry

Spanish fishermen fear that Morocco will use the maritime fishing card as a retaliatory measure, reports Assabah. Legitimate concerns, in the sense that Rabat had issued several warnings about the negative consequences of the interference of the European Parliament in the bilateral crisis between Morocco and Spain. A blow in prospect for Spain, the main beneficiary of the fisheries agreement with the EU, which expires legally in 2023? The Sahara issue remains and remains a point of friction between the two countries.

In a message, Luis Planas, the Spanish Minister of Agriculture, tried to reassure the operators working in the fishing sector in his country. According to him, the political crisis with Morocco cannot have a negative impact on economic agreements. Despite the persistence of the crisis, he assures that there is no change on the horizon in the field of fishing.

The EU and Spain want to maintain excellent relations with Morocco in a framework of mutual respect, the Spanish minister declared to the press. He acknowledged the importance of the activity of Spanish fishermen in Moroccan territorial waters. Out of the 120 boats operating in Moroccan territorial waters, more than 90 are Spanish, according to statistical data. This activity is not only profitable but also creates jobs in Andalusia and more particularly in the province of Cadiz.