Spain's King Felipe VI Advocates for Ties with Morocco

During a landmark visit to Ceuta, King Felipe VI of Spain called for stronger relations with Morocco, emphasizing Spain's non-negotiable sovereignty over Ceuta and Melilla. Accompanied by Queen Letizia, this visit marked the first by a Spanish monarch to Ceuta since 2007.

The visit occurred amid ongoing tensions related to migration, particularly following an unprecedented influx of over 70,000 migrants on July 30 and 31. Many migrants were returned to Morocco quickly, while others faced difficult conditions.

The migration crisis has intensified political discussions in Spain ahead of the general election scheduled for November 29, with opposition figures accusing Morocco of leveraging migration for political pressure, allegations that both Morocco and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez have denied. King Mohammed VI of Morocco criticized irresponsible statements regarding the crisis, advocating for cooperation without pressure.

The royal couple also honored migrants who died attempting to reach Ceuta, highlighting the urgent need for safer migration routes and better protection for vulnerable individuals.