The President of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo, announced an agreement reached during a meeting with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita in Rabat this Tuesday. The two leaders committed to creating a collaborative working group with Morocco, Spain, and the Canary Islands to facilitate the return of unaccompanied migrant minors to their families in Morocco.
Clavijo emphasized that this partnership signifies a new stage in relations with the Moroccan government, aimed at benefiting both countries. The meeting, attended by the Spanish Ambassador to Morocco, Enrique Ojeda, Deputy Minister Octavio Caraballo, and the Director General of Relations with Africa, Luis Padilla, marks a renewed focus on cooperative efforts between the Canary Islands and Morocco.
Renewing Cooperation and Expanding Partnership
Clavijo stated that the Canary Islands have historically maintained a positive relationship with Morocco based on principles of stability, loyalty, trust, and mutual cooperation. Minister Bourita echoed this sentiment, describing the relationship as “privileged.” Clavijo added that this strengthened partnership would focus on shared interests, such as migration management, climate change action, clean energy initiatives, and science and technology collaborations.
The two leaders highlighted the importance of involving new public and private sector actors on both sides, recognizing the potential for cooperation in areas like economic transformation and shared regional challenges.
Addressing Migratory Flows and Future Initiatives
One of the key challenges discussed was the ongoing issue of migratory flows. Clavijo acknowledged Morocco’s significant efforts in migration control, with around 8,000 troops dedicated to managing these issues. He expressed gratitude for Morocco’s contributions and the need for a collaborative approach to address this complex problem.
As part of this cooperation, Clavijo announced that, on 24 October, over 50 representatives from the Canary Islands would participate in the “Africa Canarias Challenge” in Benguerir, Morocco. This mission, focused on science and technology, will be the largest Spanish delegation of its kind ever to travel to Morocco.
Additional Remarks on Foreign Policy
Clavijo reiterated that foreign relations, including matters related to the Sahara, fall under the jurisdiction of the Spanish Government. However, he expressed the Canary Islands’ commitment to fostering strong partnerships with neighbouring regions, working towards a common future of stability, innovation, and mutual benefit.
