By Souhail Karam | Updated on Oct 09, 2026 at 06:47 PM
Morocco plans to propose a new pact with the European Union on migration controls after a surge of illegal crossings into the Spanish exclave of Ceuta in late July ignited a crisis between the two Mediterranean neighbors.
King Mohammed VI, whose sweeping prerogatives include directing foreign policy, made the announcement in a televised address Friday, in his first public comments about the crossings that coincided with the anniversary of his accession to the throne in 1999.
Morocco will make a proposal to “its partners outlining a clear, practical strategic vision — one that introduces a new direction aimed at fostering co-development, economic competitiveness, and regional stability,” he said.
Speaking to a newly elected assembly, the 63-year-old ruler touted his country’s “balanced approach in managing migration that has yielded tangible results.”
“Morocco has succeeded in consolidating its international standing as a responsible and reliable partner — one committed to honoring its obligations and, consequently, fully entitled to expect reciprocal treatment from its partners,” the monarch told the lawmakers.
“However, we must courageously and objectively acknowledge that the current cooperation model in this area has become outdate, as clearly evidenced by recurring crises,” the monarch added.
He cautioned that Morocco would not be bullied by what he termed “irresponsible statements from certain political and media circles and their blatant exploitation of the situation” in Spain.
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Morocco’s partnership with Spain led to progress in controlling illegal immigration but “currently faces major challenges” such as judicial obstacles to the return of minors and “individuals falsely claiming refugee status,” he said.
“Partnership is a sovereign choice and a voluntary commitment; it cannot be subjected to pressure, threats, or blackmail,” he added.