Spain seeks ultra-peripheral status for Ceuta and Melilla

The Spanish government has requested that the European Union grant Ceuta and Melilla the status of ultra-peripheral regions. This designation would provide the two autonomous cities with economic and financial advantages similar to those enjoyed by the Canary Islands, the Azores, and Madeira.

Key benefits sought include increased European co-financing, access to specific funds such as FEDER-RUP, and specialized agricultural and fisheries aid outside the Common Agricultural Policy. The proposal also aims to allow the cities to maintain their own specific fiscal and customs regimes and secure permanent representation in the European Committee of the Regions.

In response, the European Commission has clarified that such a change is not within its direct competence. European Commission Vice President Raffaele Fitto stated that any such solution would be a decision for the Council, meaning it requires the unanimous agreement of all 27 EU member states.