Latest news with #Morocco-Spain
Morocco World
14-06-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Morocco-Spain Tunnel: Bridging Continents for Euro-African Integration
A tunnel between worlds In the bustling port of Tangier, ferries cross back and forth, carrying families, tourists, and goods between Morocco and Spain. This route has long been crucial to connecting Africa and Europe. Today, with the proposed building of the Strait of Gibraltar tunnel, a new chapter in this cross-continental relationship is forming. The Strait of Gibraltar tunnel link between Morocco and Spain has once again captured international attention, thanks to recent developments in the two countries. On May 10, Spain allocated €1.6 million to conduct updated feasibility studies for an underwater rail tunnel that would link Punta Paloma in Cadiz to Punta Malabata near Tangier. The project, formally revived in 2023, following a period of uncertainty and disruption since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, has been under discussion since the 1980s. A recent joint statement issued by Spanish Transport Minister Oscar Puente and Moroccan authorities emphasizes the geostrategic importance of this crossing, which is seen to be more than just a physical connection: a bridge between continents, cultures, and economies. Despite its promise, the Morocco-Spain tunnel initiative faces daunting technical challenges. The 42-kilometer rail tunnel would extend as low as 475 meters beneath the sea and have to pass through a seismically sensitive region near the Azores-Gibraltar fault line. Symbolism and soft power To Morocco, the tunnel is more than simple infrastructure. It is a demonstration of soft power and continental leadership. With the only African country to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, (co-hosting alongside Spain and Portugal), Morocco is already making news. While early expectations had hoped to see the tunnel finished in time for the tournament, revised projections now place completion closer to 2040. Still, the political and cultural momentum remains significant. In April, Spain's Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares called for a strengthening of EU-Morocco ties, stressing the importance of bilateral cooperation amid rising global uncertainty. Morocco is not just a neighbor, but a strategic partner for Europe. The Morocco-Spain tunnel project could become a literal and symbolic way to make these ambitions a reality. The cross-cultural initiative Operation Crossing the Strait (OPE), was referenced by Spain's Ministry of Home Affairs as an example of 'good coordination between neighboring countries and of the great preparatory work of our technical teams,' demonstrating how joint infrastructure efforts can be an example of broader diplomatic harmony. OPE is a 'permanent [form of] communication between our respective teams.' Local impact and ferry trade Economically, the tunnel would transform regional logistics. Analysts at CAPMAD observe that the tunnel is part of wider EU-African trade ambitions, particularly the European Green Deal and supply chain expansion into North and West Africa. Morocco, already a key trade partner with Spain and the EU, could further consolidate its role as an African entrance point for goods and labour. This is especially critical considering shipping disruptions and global instability that are pushing European countries to diversify supply routes and expand regional partnerships. The economic stakes are high. Spanish transport officials state that the tunnel will bring a 'quantitative and qualitative acceleration of the [Moroccan] economy' by opening up the movement of goods, services, and people. In May 2025, the launch of new high-speed ferry services between Tarifa and Tangier by Balearia once again highlights this point. As one Balearia spokesperson explained to Morocco World News, 'it's a very important route for our customers, for Moroccans, and for all tourists visiting Morocco, particularly the city of Tangier.' This only adds to the commercial viability of investment in permanent infrastructure, with the Strait of Gibraltar tunnel initiative demonstrating the growing demand for safe and efficient crossings. If ferry traffic is any indicator, demand for connectivity is high. The Gibraltar tunnel would not replace ferries but supplement them, offering a permanent, weather-resistant alternative. A tunnel of dreams and doubts Beyond the geopolitics and financial considerations lies a human story. For thousands of Moroccan families with relatives in Spain, and for students, workers, and tourists traveling between continents, the Strait of Gibraltar tunnel represents something tangible: ease of movement, integration and opportunity. Whether or not this vision is achieved depends not only on engineering calculations, but on sustained political will and inter-regional cooperation. However, not all are as optimistic. There is concern with the environmental implications of drilling through the sensitive seabed of the Strait of Gibraltar, especially in an area so crucial to marine biodiversity and the connecting point between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean . Meanwhile, the Morocco-Spain tunnel has often faced criticism as skeptics point to the decades-long history of missed deadlines and political detours. Although preliminary discussions began in the early 2000s, physical progress has been lacking, with each administration restarting efforts without any concrete goalposts. Technically, the tunnel would surpass even the Eurotunnel (connecting the United Kingdom, France, Belgium and The Netherlands) and Norway's Ryfast in complexity. The seismic hazards in the region make it unlike any existing underwater rail connection, as evaluated in regional infrastructure assessments. A future in the making In many ways, the Morocco-Spain tunnel is more than just an engineering feat; it represents the future of EU-African relations. It challenges the countries involved to contemplate something greater than borders and short-term gains. The tunnel is not simply steel and concrete, but the idea of greater continental solidarity. As plans move forward and studies develop, the question remains: Will the Gibraltar tunnel unite communities and close old gaps, or expose new ones? If completed, the project could stand as one of the 21st century's most powerful symbols of Euro-African unity. For now though, it remains merely a vision. Even if the train takes years to arrive, the journey it promises has already begun. Tags: economyMorocco spainunderwater tunnel
Ya Biladi
06-06-2025
- Politics
- Ya Biladi
Spain's PSOE opposes recognition of Polisario documents in nationality bid
In Spain, the lower house is currently reviewing a bill that would grant Spanish nationality to Sahrawis born during the Spanish colonial era. The proposal, submitted by the far-left coalition Sumar, has sparked intense debate among lawmakers, according to Spanish media reports on Thursday, June 5. The Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE), led by Pedro Sanchez, has demanded that applicants exclude any documents issued by the Polisario Front. Sumar had initially called for the recognition of documents signed by the Polisario and legalized by its representation in Spain. To recall, the lower house agreed on February 25 to examine Sumar's bill, despite PSOE's opposition. Socialist MPs had previously voted against a similar proposal in 2022, submitted by Unidas Podemos lawmakers the year before. In February 2023, the former far-left coalition revived the initiative in protest against a high-level Morocco-Spain meeting in Rabat, held without the participation of its ministers. However, the early general elections on July 23 delayed its examination. The proposal was later reignited in November 2023 by Sumar MP Tesh Sidi, who is of Sahrawi origin.
Maroc
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Maroc
Tarragona Celebrates Morocco's Cultural Richness
Morocco Festival, an event that celebrates the richness of Moroccan heritage in all its diversity and serves as a cultural bridge between the two shores of the Mediterranean, started Friday evening in Tarragona, Spain. Organized by the Consulate General of Morocco in Tarragona in collaboration with the city's municipality, this economic, cultural, and artistic event aims to highlight the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Spain and Morocco—a land of cultural intermingling and a cradle of ancient civilizations. The opening ceremony of the festival, which features a rich and varied program designed to showcase Morocco in all its splendor, was marked by a reenactment of a traditional Moroccan wedding, offering the audience a fascinating journey into the Kingdom's ancestral customs and traditions. The evening was enlivened by a performance from singer Saïda Charaf and a Gnaoua music group, followed by a Moroccan caftan fashion show, highlighting the elegance, craftsmanship, and refinement of Moroccan designers, and shedding light on the Kingdom's authentic and ancestral heritage. On this occasion, Morocco's Ambassador to Madrid, Karima Benyaich, praised the organization of a festival in Tarragona dedicated to Morocco, noting that this initiative reflects the strength of the human ties between the two Kingdoms. This cultural and artistic event in Tarragona celebrates the richness and diversity of Morocco's cultural and artisanal heritage, offering visitors a unique immersion into the various facets of Moroccan identity—a cultural crossroads between tradition and modernity, she said. The diplomat also reviewed the progress achieved by Morocco in recent years, under the enlightened leadership of HM King Mohammed VI, through numerous political, economic, and social reforms aimed at elevating the country to the ranks of great nations. For his part, the Spanish government delegate in Catalonia, Carlos Prieto Gómez Nombrado, stated that this festival is "a representative showcase of Moroccan culture in all its dimensions," highlighting the richness and depth of Morocco's heritage. Gómez Nombrado also emphasized the strength and excellence of Morocco-Spain relations, which are clearly demonstrated through mutual solidarity during difficult times. The Morocco Festival in Tarragona features an eclectic program designed to bring Moroccan culture closer to the Spanish public, while shedding light on the historical, human, and commercial ties that have united the two countries for centuries. MAP: 10 mai 2025
Morocco World
30-04-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Morocco Spotlights Investment Opportunities at ‘Morocco Now' Conference in Madrid
Rabat – Morocco showcased its economic strengths and investment opportunities during the 'Morocco Now' conference held on Tuesday in Madrid. The event, held under the theme 'Investing Together for a Sustainable and Shared Future,' brought together major economic players from both Morocco and Spain. The conference aimed to promote Morocco as a reliable and attractive destination for foreign investments, especially for European partners. Drawing over 150 companies, it was organized by Morocco's Ministry of Investment, Convergence and Evaluation of Public Policies, in collaboration with the Moroccan Agency for Investment and Export Development (AMDIE). During the event, the Moroccan delegation recalled the country's recent economic reforms, high-potential industries, and concrete projects available for mutually beneficial partnerships. Spain's Secretary of State for Trade, Amparo López Senovilla, spoke of the strategic importance of the Morocco-Spain relationship. 'Our historical ties and strategic geographical locations bring both sides of the Mediterranean closer,' she said, MAP news agency reported. She also pointed to the 12th high-level meeting between Morocco and Spain, held in Rabat in February 2023, which laid out a roadmap for deeper cooperation in key sectors such as economy and sustainability. Morocco's Ambassador to Spain, Karima Benyaich, described Morocco as a promising platform for Spanish businesses. She commended the country's ambitious strategic vision, favorable business climate, and growing partnership with Spain. Meanwhile, Karim Zidane, Morocco's Minister Delegate in charge of Investment, urged Spanish companies to explore the many investment opportunities available in Morocco, especially in key sectors like aerospace, renewable energy, automotive, and electronics. He noted Morocco's world-class infrastructure, skilled young workforce, and strategic location as reasons for its growing attractiveness to foreign investors. Ali Seddiki, Director General of AMDIE, also spoke of Morocco's position as a leading hub for investment and exports in the region. He said the conference in Madrid aims to encourage more Spanish businesses to invest in Morocco. Moroccan and Spanish officials have continuously vowed to strengthen cooperation in many sectors and encourage investment in both countries, especially after Madrid officially endorsed Morocco's sovereignty over the Western Sahara.
Morocco World
28-04-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Morocco, Spain Discuss Reinforcing Military, Security Cooperation
Rabat – Rabat hosted the 11th meeting of the Morocco-Spain Joint Military Commission today, where Moroccan and Spanish military representatives reiterated their determination to boost security cooperation at all levels. The meeting focused on reviewing the achievements of the 2024-2025 period and included discussions covering what activities will be planned for next year's program. Both the Moroccan and Spanish delegation emphasized their shared commitment to strengthening cooperation between the two countries' armed forces. As part of the meeting, Mohammed Berrid, Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) and Commander of the Southern Zone, received General of the Army Corps Fernando Jode Lopez del Pozo, Director General of Defense Policy at the Spanish Ministry of Defense. The two officials welcomed the cooperation between the two countries, which focuses on military training in the field, exchange of expertise, and visits, among other avenues. Spain and Morocco share good diplomatic ties, with the two countries determined to cooperate at all levels, including security. The Spanish government frequently stresses the importance of Morocco as a strategic ally, contributing to the region's security and stability. Morocco's security services constantly hand over intelligence to Spain, enabling the European country to safeguard its borders from different security challenges, including irregular migration and terrorism threats. Recently, the Spanish police dismantled several terrorist cells in coordination with Morocco's security services, including the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance (DGST). Collaboration between the two countries also covers joint military training and more. In March, Spanish news outlet OKDiario reported on data compiled by the Spanish Ministry of Economy, showing that Spain has increased its arms exports to Morocco by 1,264.77% in 2024 compared to the previous year, reaching a total value of €21 million – up from €1.5 million in 2023. The data also shows that rifle, gun, and spring pistol exports to Morocco increased by 10% in 2024, reaching €205,564. The majority of the exports also covered bombs, grenades, and torpedoes, with the total export value jumping from €1 million in 2023 to €12.8 million in 2024. Spain's arms imports from Morocco remained minimal, totaling only €1,277 in 2024, with €660 spent on rifles and spring pistols, and €617 on sabers, swords, and bayonets.
