Reclaiming Ceuta and Melilla: Morocco wants to involve the EU in the search for a «definitive solution»

Morocco’s Justice Minister, Abdellatif Ouahbi, has firmly reiterated the country’s stance on Ceuta and Melilla. Speaking to public broadcaster 2M, he emphasized Morocco’s «historic and geographic rights» to these territories, stating, «We will defend our historic and geographic rights through dialogue.» Ouahbi urged Spain and the European Union to engage with Rabat in discussions to find a «definitive solution».

The minister stressed the importance of progressing beyond the current stalemate. «The issue of Ceuta and Melilla will continue to be a matter of dialogue between us and Spain,» he asserted, reaffirming Morocco’s claim to the cities.

Ouahbi also proposed establishing a specific platform for negotiations with Madrid, suggesting a «dialogue commission» to deliberate on the future status of Ceuta and Melilla. His objective is to secure a «definitive solution» that would see the cities «return to the homeland».

Albares responds to Ouahbi

In response, Spain’s Foreign Minister underscored that «Ceuta and Melilla are two Spanish cities, situated on the border of Spain and the European Union. They are integral to Spain’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, recognized internationally, and part of EU territory. We categorically reject any opposing interpretation regarding Ceuta and Melilla,» stated Spain’s foreign ministry, as reported by Madrid-based outlets.

This reaction follows remarks made by Ouahbi two weeks prior, on August 11, during an interview with the Saudi channel Asharq Bloomberg, where he reiterated Morocco’s claim to the cities.

«We remain committed to our territories and seek to resolve the issue with Spain through dialogue,» he said, noting that the topic frequently arises in Moroccan-Spanish meetings. «We constantly raise the matter with the Spaniards during our meetings,» he added. The response from the Spanish government and political parties was one of rejection to Ouahbi’s assertions.

These declarations coincide with the August 21 commemoration of the 611th anniversary of Portugal’s occupation of Ceuta.