Spain Prepares to Transfer Airspace Management in the Desert to Morocco
Morocco insists on full sovereignty over its southern territories, both by land and sea
The country is in discussions with Spain regarding the demarcation of maritime borders around the Canary Islands in line with this sovereignty. The relations between Morocco and Spain continue positively, especially after Madrid acknowledged the realistic and serious proposal for self-governance as a solution to the contrived conflict in Moroccan Sahara. This has led to strengthened Moroccan-Spanish security coordination, and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez finds himself in a strong position, especially in light of the preparations for deeper collaboration during his upcoming visit to Rabat.
The Spanish government aims to expedite the arrangements for Sánchez‘s visit to Morocco early next year, anticipating further cooperation in matters related to sovereignty, particularly the “demarcation of maritime borders” and the “management of airspace” above the Moroccan desert. Madrid supports the Moroccan initiative of self-governance, as reported by Spanish media.
Morocco, in any international collaboration, insists on starting from the reality of its full sovereignty over its southern territories, both by land and sea. The country is engaged in discussions with Spain on the demarcation of maritime borders around the Canary Islands based on this reality. Sources indicate that during Sánchez’s upcoming visit, both countries are betting on achieving economic growth by accessing new markets, attracting more foreign investments, tourism offers, and air freight networks.
Spanish newspaper “okdiario” reported, citing diplomatic sources, that the Spanish government is actively preparing to transfer the management of the airspace in the desert to Morocco. It is mentioned that the official announcement of Sánchez’s visit to Rabat is imminent, and there are “ongoing arrangements” for the “long-awaited” meeting between the Spanish Prime Minister and the Moroccan King Mohammed VI.
The Spanish government currently controls this section of the airspace through the air traffic control center in the Canary Islands, imposing fees on every flight passing through this region. Spain’s recognition of the Moroccan character of Moroccan Sahara, considering the self-governance proposal as the “realistic and only solution” to the issue, played a crucial role in improving relations and initiating cooperation. Significant projects, including the joint organization of the 2030 World Cup, have been signed.
The anticipated visit of Sánchez to Morocco is considered a diplomatic prelude, and Spain recognizes the importance of Morocco in various aspects, including economic access to Africa, security, counter-terrorism, and migration policy. Sánchez emphasized the strategic nature of the relationship, stating that cooperation with Morocco is highly positive.
Meanwhile, the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita reiterated Spain’s stance on the Moroccan Sahara issue. Spain and Morocco aim to achieve economic growth through the upcoming visit, along with strengthening diplomatic ties.
The diplomatic approach of Morocco, marked by serious and balanced engagement, demonstrates a precise vision, deep analysis, and a balanced understanding of the geostrategic situation and international power dynamics. Morocco aims to resolve the Moroccan Sahara conflict in its favor, backed by strong historical, legal, and political arguments, and using it as a yardstick to evaluate economic partnerships and external relations, aligning with the royal vision in this context.
