Ceuta’s President and Spanish FM Reject Claims of Moroccan Invasion Threat

Juan Jesús Vivas, President of Ceuta, and Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares firmly rejected speculation regarding a possible new Green March by Morocco. They emphasized the security of Ceuta and the importance of maintaining strong relations with Morocco amidst rising media concerns. Their statements affirmed Ceuta’s sovereignty and the need for continued collaboration between Spain and Morocco.

In a recent statement, Juan Jesús Vivas, the President of Ceuta, emphatically rejected any notion that Morocco might undertake a new invasion of the enclave, analogous to the historical Green March. His remarks were made during a breakfast event in Madrid organized by Nueva Economía Fórum, where he expressed complete confidence that Ceuta is secure and free from such threats. Vivas stated, “I have no concern whatsoever… that Ceuta could be affected by any risk of a possible Green March on our city. It is absolutely out of the question.”

Moreover, Vivas cautioned against disseminating unfounded rumors concerning Moroccan intentions toward Ceuta, arguing that such speculation could detrimentally impact the community’s stability and development. He emphasized the necessity of a secure environment to foster confidence for future growth, underscoring, “There is not the slightest risk of such a contingency. Ceuta’s sovereignty is guaranteed by the constitutional order and by the State… because the law proves it, and because the people of Ceuta want it.”

These assertions were corroborated by José Manuel Albares, Spain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, who made similar declarations in a Telecinco interview. Albares stressed that Morocco remains a friend and strategic partner of Spain, noting that the relations between the two nations are solid. He asserted, “Morocco is a friendly country… both enclaves are perfectly integrated within Spain, and this is clear to everyone.”

These official statements were made in light of rising media speculation about potential Moroccan actions towards Ceuta and Melilla, especially in the context of Donald Trump’s presidency. Reports indicated anxieties regarding Trump possibly supporting Morocco’s claims over these territories, akin to his earlier recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara. El Español, among other outlets, raised concerns about a potential escalation marked by the upcoming 50th anniversary of the Green March.

Despite the heightened fears stemming from increased U.S.-Moroccan relations and Morocco’s military expenditures, Vivas and Albares dismissed these concerns. Vivas reiterated the significance of robust bilateral ties, stating, “We consider that relations between Spain and Morocco are a matter of State.” He also highlighted the need for customs operations to be conducted without unnecessary restrictions, adhering to legal and logistical frameworks.

In summary, both Juan Jesús Vivas and José Manuel Albares strongly dismissed claims of a potential new Green March by Morocco aimed at Ceuta. Their firm reassurances reflect Spain’s commitment to its territorial integrity and the importance of fostering positive relations with Morocco. Concerns raised by media reports are addressed through confident assertions regarding the security and stability of Ceuta, underscoring the necessity for constructive dialogue and cooperation between the nations.

Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com