Interview: Canary Islands' Prime Minister discusses maritime borders, economic cooperation with Morocco

Canary Islands’ Prime Minister Fernando Clavijo Battle, announced that maximal preparations are being made between his country and Morocco for the inauguration of the maritime connection between Palmas and Tarfaya, which might happen this year.

In an interview with Hespress AR, Clavijo noted that the question of defining the Canaries’ and Morocco’s borders must be subject to international legitimacy and international accords in this area.

The Canary Islands’ Prime Minister admitted that he has no information about Spain handing over control of Moroccan Sahara airspace to Rabat, but emphasized that the Canary Islands support UN resolutions and reaching an acceptable and long-term solution to the Moroccan Sahara issue.

First of all, how do you evaluate the visit of the Spanish Foreign Minister, Manuel Albarez, to Morocco? Do you think that he fulfilled the demands of the Canaries?

We believe it is very important for Spain and Morocco to have flexible communication and dialogue because we are two neighboring countries with many economic, historical, and cultural ties… We must address global challenges in a coordinated way, with the main goal of achieving stability and development in the region.

How do you comment on the statements of the Moroccan side, which insisted on the necessity of continuing negotiations on defining the maritime borders between the two parties?

In this matter, we understand that the internationally recognized principle is equidistance, and any designation of the Atlantic interface must be agreed upon within the framework of international legality and international agreements in this area. Particular attention should be paid to protecting the environment in the region because both countries have an important tourism sector to preserve and promote.

Regarding this issue specifically, are there any developments regarding these consultations? When will it launch?

The Government of the Canary Islands has expressed its interest in participating in the joint groups promoted by the two countries, in particular on the issues that most affect us such as migration and the delimitation of maritime space.

There was a comment by representatives in the Canary Islands on the royal speech in which he insisted on the necessity of exploring mineral resources in the Atlantic Ocean. Why did the response come in this form? Are you concerned about Morocco taking this step?

We should mutually agree to explore resources. We must also understand that the highest priority is to ensure environmental protection, as we cannot allow a potential accident to harm our respective economies.

Regarding airspace, are the Canaries ready to accept that Spain hand over airspace to Morocco? Can you explain to us how these negotiations take place? And at what
levels?

I have no information on this topic.

How do you evaluate trade exchange between Canaries and Morocco at present?

We have had times of greater trade relations when fishing was an important sector in the Canary Islands, and now we must encourage more cooperation, especially in the field of renewable energy and tourism for example.

It was pointed out that we have improved air communication and now want to support maritime communication with Tarfaya.

We are convinced that the reopening of this line will mean a leap in trade and economic relations, which will benefit not only Morocco and the Canary Islands but also other countries in the region.

In this aspect, we see that there is a great intention to restore the maritime connection between Tarfaya and Las Palmas. When will that happen?

We hope that as soon as possible, there is maximum readiness on all sides to reopen this important maritime connection, so the results may appear this year.

How do you evaluate cooperation in the field of immigration with Morocco?

We must improve migration flows because it is a very dangerous route where many young people die crossing irregularly.

At the same time, Europe must offer channels for regular and legal migration, because demographics are important, as the average age in The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries is 42, and the average age in Africa is 19, which means that many sectors require in Spain and Europe Young workers, but these flows must be accompanied and regular, as I said.

Concerning minors, there is a very important problem, because young people are in a better position with their families and in their family and cultural environment.

The Canary Islands cannot integrate 4.500 minors, as there must be joint responsibility from Morocco, Spain, and the European Union.

Let’s talk about the Sahara issue. Do the Canary Islands support Madrid’s position in support of autonomy in the Sahara?

Our priority is stability in the region and creating conditions for well-being for the people who share this geographical space.

We will always stand by what international organizations decide and support a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable solution within the framework of the United Nations.

Do you want to invest in these areas?

Morocco is a country that enjoys commercial expansion across the world and provides opportunities for our private sector and for cooperation with our institutions, such as universities, research institutes, and of course the private sector, all of which operate within Spain and the European Union.

In addition, the Canary Islands are a “RUP” area in Europe (European Trade Area), which means that we will be a castle in the middle of this neighborhood.

Finally, if Sanchez visits Morocco, will you attend with him?

Who goes with President Sanchez will be decided by him. Of course, I would be pleased to go with him if I were invited.

I will only add that, for us, Morocco is a very important partner with whom we wish to expand our economic ties because, during the 2008 financial crisis, our excellent cooperation with one another deteriorated, and some of our major companies were investing in Agadir’s tourism development.

Rebuilding cooperation is crucial, and Aziz Akhannouch, the current head of state, was a major force behind the cooperation that ended the financial crisis. Maritime connectivity can be a powerful and effective catalyst.