EU can give Morocco more border support, von der Leyen tells Spain after Ceuta spat
EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said Morocco was “an important strategic partner” in stopping illegal migration as Europe looks to tighten its borders.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen suggested the European Union could boost border support for Morocco to prevent a repeat of the recent migrant influx that overwhelmed Spain's Ceuta enclave. Von der Leyen emphasized Morocco's importance as a strategic partner in combating illegal migration and illegal crossings.
The incident, which began last week at the EU's only two land borders with Africa, triggered concerns across the bloc. Border control has been a contentious issue in Europe since the 2015-16 migration crisis, fueling support for right-wing parties and disputes over migration rules. The EU is increasingly relying on migration agreements with North African countries, including Morocco, to curb irregular arrivals.
However, the pact's effectiveness has been questioned after the Ceuta incident. Critics argue that dependence on transit countries might make Europe vulnerable to political pressure and undermine confidence in European leaders.
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