Spain says Ceuta, Melilla status is not open to negotiations with Morocco

Spain has ruled out opening negotiations with Morocco over the status of the occupied cities of Ceuta and Melilla, Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares said Friday.

Speaking before the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Spanish Congress, Albares said there had “never been, nor will there ever be, any discussion with Morocco on this matter.”

He added that Madrid had responded through all available diplomatic channels to Moroccan statements it considers contrary to Spain’s territorial integrity.

“Ceuta and Melilla are Spanish territories and part of the European Union,” Albares said.

He said the same applies to all residents of the two cities, regardless of their origin or beliefs, describing them as “Spanish and European not only by law, but also in heart and soul.”

At the same time, Albares stressed the need to keep communication channels open with Morocco, saying diplomatic dialogue is “essential” given the two countries’ status as neighbors and the situation along their borders.

He said communication between the two countries remains ongoing to contain the current crisis in Ceuta and prevent a similar situation from recurring.

Albares also said cooperation with Morocco had helped facilitate the return of 90% of the 80,000 migrants who entered the city on July 30 and 31. Authorities are continuing efforts to return those who remain in Ceuta.

The remarks followed statements by Moroccan Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi in recent weeks regarding Morocco’s historical and geographical claims to Ceuta and Melilla.

Ouahbi has said Morocco’s sovereignty over the two cities remains on the table and that Rabat continues to raise the issue during meetings with Spanish officials.