The Spanish Foreign Minister Affirms in an Interview with El País the Importance of the Partnership with Morocco and Spain’s Support for the Autonomy Proposal Under Moroccan Sovereignty in the Sahara

ALDAR/

In an interview with El País, the Spanish Foreign Minister reaffirmed the importance of the strategic relationship between his country and Morocco, emphasizing that this partnership is valued by all European Union countries. He also reiterated Spain’s position in support of the autonomy initiative proposed by Morocco as a solution to the Sahara conflict, considering that this approach enjoys broad European consensus.

During the interview, the minister was asked whether Spain’s foreign policy towards Morocco is based on interests or values. He responded that Morocco is a key partner for Spain and the European Union, particularly in combating irregular migration and terrorism. He also pointed out that the volume of trade between the two countries is comparable to that recorded by Spain with the United States and the United Kingdom.

He further discussed the reopening of customs in Melilla and the establishment, for the first time in history, of a customs office in Ceuta. He affirmed that his country supports the efforts of the Personal Envoy of the UN Secretary-General to reach a mutually agreed solution among all concerned parties.

When addressing the letter sent by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to the King of Morocco in 2022, in which he expressed his country’s support for the autonomy proposal as a realistic and practical solution, the minister stressed that this Spanish position is clear and steadfast. He recalled that it was confirmed in the joint declaration between the two countries and is also backed by the majority of European Union member states.