Spanish PM welcomes exemplary cooperation with Morocco, reiterates support for Sahara autonomy plan

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez welcomed strengthened ties with Morocco at all levels and reiterated his country’s position in support of Morrocco’s autonomy plan for the Sahara territory.

Sanchez who is making his first visit to Morocco since his re-election recalled that Spain remains consistent in its policy towards the Sahara conflict in line with the declaration Spain made in 2022 describing the autonomy plan as “the most serious, realistic and credible solution” to the Sahara issue.

Relations between the two countries are at their best in decades, he said at a press conference, following a meeting with King Mohammed VI.

Spain is Morocco’s largest trading partner while Morocco is the third largest trading partner for Spain outside the EU, right after the US and the UK. Bilateral trade totaled 20 billion euros last year and is set to break new records as businessmen from the two countries reap the benefits of improved diplomatic ties.

Cooperation on migration is “exemplary,” said Sanchez, who said his country also seeks to promote regular migration flows.

The two countries continue to cooperate closely against security risks including organized crime and terrorism, he said.

Sanchez also said the 2030 World Cup, to be hosted by Morocco, Spain and Portugal, is a chance to further reinforce cooperation.

A statement by the Royal Office said Sanchez welcomed and expressed Spain’s interest in Morocco’s initiative to help African countries in the Sahel access the Atlantic as well as the Nigeria-Morocco African-Atlantic Gas Pipeline.