The European Union is preparing to raise counter irregular migration aid to Morocco by 50%, according to Spanish media outlets.
The EU is finalizing a package of at least 500 million euros, to be deployed to assist Morocco in countering irregular migration and boost its efforts to fight human trafficking.
Through this aid, part of Rabat’s efforts to combat irregular migration will be covered for the coming 2021-2027 period, report various Spanish outlets.
Given the last amount received in this framework, 343 million euros, Brussels is to grant Morocco “more funds than ever.”
A high ranking source from the European Union cited in Spanish newspaper El Pais said this new aid constitutes a reference to the growing role of Morocco as a “very important” partner, not only for Spain or France, but for the entire union.
“This amount gives an idea of the degree of Brussels’ ambition, which deflects Spain’s fears that the union may neglect the region south of the EU,” said the source.
The Spanish newspaper highlighted that the charter ratified on this aid, which falls within the framework of the “European Neighborhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument” program, will enter into force next fall.
The charter includes various provisions covering integration and protection projects for refugees living in Morocco, and raising awareness of the risks of irregular migration.
In addition, the framework tackles forcible return and police cooperation, including joint investigations, as well as strengthening cooperation with EU agencies and the fight against human trafficking gangs.
Negotiations over these 500 million euros have been going on for months, as Morocco maintained high expectations and demands regarding the distribution of European funds.
Brussels wanted more commitments from Morocco, specifically with regard to the readmission of its citizens who entered the continent irregularly, El Pais reported.
In addition, the same Spanish platform revealed that while the European Union excluded Algeria from this aid, along with Morocco, a group of North African countries concerned with combating irregular migration will benefit from the support.
Gambia, Senegal and Mauritania were all cited as potential beneficiaries to the financial aid to reinforce anti irregular migration mechanisms.
add your comment
Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.