Pedro Sánchez and Mohamed VI launch a new stage in relations between Spain and Morocco

Rabat (Morocco)

Pedro Sánchez had been invited by the Moroccan monarch to an 'iftar' in his honour, an important tradition during Ramadan in which the daily fast is broken immediately after sunset.

Foto: Pool Moncloa/Borja Puig de la BellacasaThis new stage in bilateral relations has been highlighted in the joint declaration agreed by both countries, which recognises that the president of the Government of Spain's letter to Mohammed VI in March and last week's telephone conversation between the two countries have opened a new page in relations between Spain and Morocco.

"We are embarking on a new chapter in our long shared history, which should enable us to face the challenges but also the many opportunities of the future with confidence: A true partnership for the 21st century," Sánchez stressed.

This new roadmap foresees the setting up of working groups, which will begin to meet shortly, for concertation in all areas of common interest, such as the existing permanent migration group; or the creation of others in areas such as the economy, infrastructure, education, vocational training, culture and sport. Spain and Morocco have agreed that, following these first meetings, they will hold a High Level Meeting between the two governments in 2022.

This includes the gradual recovery of full normality in the movement of goods and merchandise at the border crossings of Ceuta and Melilla, including the appropriate customs and people control mechanisms on land and at sea. In addition, maritime connections and preparations for 'Operation Crossing the Strait' will be resumed.

Foto: Pool Moncloa/Borja Puig de la BellacasaThe President of the Government of Spain reaffirmed that "This is a historic and necessary moment. Spain and Morocco are neighbours, friends and partners, making the bilateral relationship strategic for both.

If cooperation advances and deepens, it is always to mutual benefit. The opposite is not an option. Interdependence in all areas is an indisputable reality and it is the responsibility of their governments to strengthen and deepen these ties.

Sánchez and Mohamed VI thus begin a new stage between Spain and Morocco, based on permanent communication, transparency, mutual respect and the agreements signed.

"We face this new stage in the relationship between Spain and Morocco with hope and responsibility, as it will contribute in a specific way to guaranteeing the interests, stability and integrity of our countries," concluded the president of the Government of Spain.

Non official translation