The Government has conveyed through diplomatic channels to Morocco its firm opposition to the Moroccan claims over Ceuta and Melilla, emphasizing that "they are two Spanish cities" that are part of "the territorial integrity" and "sovereignty" of Spain.
According to sources from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headed by José Manuel Albares, it has been communicated to Rabat that "We reject and will categorically reject any different approach regarding Ceuta and Melilla," making it clear that the official position does not allow for nuances or changes.
This message from the Executive is sent after the statements of the Moroccan Minister of Justice, Abdellatif Ouahbi, who this Friday appealed to the "historical right" of Morocco over both autonomous cities. From Foreign Affairs, it has not been specified whether Albares has had a direct conversation with his Moroccan counterpart to address this matter.
The Ministry has also emphasized to the Moroccan Government that Ceuta and Melilla constitute the border of both Spain and the European Union (EU) and that its sovereignty is "recognized internationally." "They are also an integral part of the territory of the EU," the same sources have reiterated.