King Mohammed VI of Morocco welcomed Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez on February 22, 2024, at the Royal Palace in Rabat, signalling a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to enhance bilateral relations between the two neighbouring countries with a rich shared history. The meeting, characterized as a working visit, represents a continuation of the positive momentum generated by the leaders’ previous encounter in April 2022, during which they jointly adopted a declaration aimed at fostering a new era of cooperation and partnership. Since then, both nations have made significant strides in deepening ties across various sectors such as trade, investment, security, and cultural exchange.
In a statement released by Morocco’s Royal Cabinet, King Mohammed VI and Prime Minister Sánchez reaffirmed their commitment to the fundamental principles underpinning the enduring relations between Madrid and Rabat, emphasizing trust, mutual respect, good neighbourliness, and adherence to commitments. Sánchez, accompanied by Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares, arrived earlier today at the Rabat-Sale Airport and was warmly greeted by Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch. Among the focal points of discussion during the meeting was the forthcoming joint hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Portugal, underscoring the unique opportunities for collaboration between the two nations. Additionally, the leaders reiterated Spain’s support for Morocco’s autonomy initiative as a viable solution to the Western Sahara dispute, emphasizing its importance in advancing a realistic and credible resolution.
Expressing gratitude for Spain’s constructive stance, King Mohammed VI emphasized the significance of mutual respect and cooperation in addressing regional challenges. Prime Minister Sánchez, in turn, commended Morocco’s strategic initiatives, including efforts to promote cooperation among Atlantic-bordering African nations and projects such as the Atlantic Gas Pipeline, which have garnered recognition and support from international partners. The bilateral cooperation between Spain and Morocco operates within the framework of the Treaty of Friendship, Good Neighborliness, Cooperation, and Enhanced Political Dialogue, established following the Joint Declaration of April 7, 2022. This framework emphasizes principles such as transparency, ongoing dialogue, mutual respect, and the implementation of signed commitments and agreements. Accompanying the Spanish delegation were Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares and Emma Aparici, Secretary-General of Foreign Affairs at the Office of the Prime Minister, while King Mohammed VI was joined by Fouad Ali El Himma, Counselor to the King, and Nasser Bourita, Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Residing Abroad.
The meeting between King Mohammed VI and Prime Minister Sánchez underscores the mutual commitment of Morocco and Spain to further enhance their partnership and collaboration across various fronts, setting the stage for continued progress and cooperation in the years ahead.
