In the context of the evolving political and diplomatic relations between Morocco and Spain, an important meeting took place on Tuesday between Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch and his Spanish counterpart Pedro Sánchez, on the sidelines of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
This meeting was attended by Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and his Spanish counterpart José Manuel Albares, with discussions focusing on regional and international issues of mutual interest.
Un placer volver a reunirme con el primer ministro de Marruecos, Aziz Akhannouch, con quien hemos repasado el magnífico estado de las relaciones bilaterales, las mejores en décadas.
Hemos abordado la gestión de flujos migratorios y la apuesta por una migración ordenada y segura.… pic.twitter.com/rKJ1UeqxNA
— Pedro Sánchez (@sanchezcastejon) September 24, 2024
Reaffirmation of Spain’s Support for the Moroccan Sahara Issue: One of the key topics discussed during the talks was the Moroccan Sahara issue, where Spain reiterated its support for Morocco’s autonomy proposal as a realistic and final solution to the conflict. This Spanish support reflects a positive shift in bilateral relations after the crisis of recent years. As the former colonial power in this region, Spain plays a vital role in strengthening Morocco’s position on the international stage, and this support is considered a decisive step in solidifying Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces.
Regional Challenges and Growing Cooperation: In addition to the Moroccan Sahara issue, the two sides discussed several other regional and international issues, including cooperation in combating terrorism, illegal immigration, and regional security. Spain and Morocco share both maritime and land borders, which necessitates strengthening their security cooperation to ensure regional stability. This cooperation also serves as a direct response to attempts by some parties, particularly from Morocco’s eastern neighbor, to destabilize the region and create tensions.
Strengthening Economic and Energy Relations: The relations between the two countries are not limited to security and politics but also encompass vital economic aspects. Morocco and Spain aim to enhance cooperation in renewable energy and infrastructure, with Morocco serving as a gateway for many European investments in Africa. Energy cooperation includes the development of ambitious projects based on solar and wind power, which is part of both countries’ commitment to tackling climate change challenges and achieving sustainable development.
The International Message: The meeting between Akhannouch and Sánchez in New York sends a strong message to the international community about the robustness of Moroccan-Spanish relations and the growing coordination between the two countries in facing common challenges. This rapprochement strengthens Morocco’s regional role as a strategic partner for Spain and Europe and contributes to stability in the Mediterranean region.
In summary, this meeting represents a new positive development in bilateral relations between Morocco and Spain, embodying mutual commitment to strengthening cooperation on major issues such as the Moroccan Sahara, security, migration, and energy, while reaffirming the enduring strength of ties between the two nations despite past challenges.
