the reopening of customs between Melilia and Morocco would be a “humiliation”, according to Vox – Telquel.ma

CThis statement comes following information according to which Sabrina Moh, delegate of the Spanish government, informed local economic actors of a reopening project allowing the entry of Moroccan products, such as aggregates and vegetables, while imposing restrictions. restrictions on goods leaving Melilia for Morocco.

For José Miguel Tasende, this initiative, if it materializes, would constitute a new « humiliation » for Melilia. “We are against any agreement to the detriment of Spanishness” of Melilia, he said, according to Vox España. The politician insisted that “Morocco cannot decide on the future or the functioning of local institutions”.

This position comes against a backdrop of persistent tensions between Morocco and Spain over the enclaves of Melilia and Sebta. According to Tasende, accepting conditions dictated by Rabat would amount to giving in on fundamental principles, notably Spanish sovereignty over these territories. “Our city has never been and never will be Moroccan. They can only decide what happens on the other side of the border. Here, it is Spain that decides”he insisted.

For several years, Vox has been campaigning for the complete closure of the border with Morocco as long as the latter, according to them, does not show more respect for Melilia. José Miguel Tasende also criticized the economic and social impact of the current agreements on local businesses. He notably mentioned the financial imbalance caused by the expenses of the inhabitants of Melilia in Morocco. “If 8,000 Melilla residents cross the border every weekend and each spends 10 euros in Morocco, Melilla will stop charging these 80,000 euros per week”he said.

Tasende also denounced what he considers a Moroccan strategy aimed at stifling the local economy of Melilia. For him, it is unacceptable to allow Morocco to benefit from trade relations while imposing strict restrictions on exports from Melilia. “Either Morocco respects us, or it is better that it sells its aggregates and vegetables to another country”he concluded.