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[INTERNATIONAL] · Spain, Morocco · 86 sources

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King Felipe VI visits Ceuta and Melilla to reaffirm Spanish sovereignty

King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia conducted a historic two-day official visit to the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla. This marks the first royal visit to these territories since the King's accession in 2014. During the visit, the monarch reaffirmed Spain's sovereignty over the enclaves, describing them as inalienable parts of Spain and the European Union. He emphasized that any threat to these borders is a threat to the entire EU.

The visit follows a significant migration crisis in late July, during which approximately 70,000 migrants entered Ceuta from Morocco. The King also used the occasion to call for improved relations with Morocco, stressing the need for cooperation based on mutual respect, trust, and good faith. While the monarch's message regarding sovereignty was firm, he avoided direct condemnation of Morocco.

In Brussels, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed gratitude for the European Union's solidarity and commitment to the unique situation of Ceuta and Melilla. He characterized the maritime incident involving Moroccan warships during the July crisis as an isolated event that was resolved through naval communication. Meanwhile, a draft European Council summit text is expected to recognize the special status of these cities as the bloc's land border with Africa.

Entities

Ceuta · Felipe VI · José Manuel Albares · King Felipe VI · Letizia · Letizia Ortiz · Melilla · Morocco · Morocco · Nasser Bourita · Pedro Sánchez · Queen Letizia

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Sources

Felipe VI, una visita obligada [www.pontevedraviva.com]
Un papel para Leonor I [www.diariodeleon.es]
Marruecos, por tierra y mar [www.diariodenavarra.es]
Días difíciles [www.malagahoy.es]
España, al borde de la guerra [www.prensalibre.com]