Spain reaffirms ties with Morocco ahead of EU court fisheries ruling

Spain reaffirms ties with Morocco ahead of EU court fisheries ruling
Thursday 3 October 2024 - 15:06

Spain reaffirmed its commitment to a stable relationship with Morocco, stating that it will navigate any potential repercussions from the upcoming European Court of Justice (CJEU) ruling on the trade and fishing agreement between the EU and Morocco.

Luis Planas, the Spanish Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food, expressed confidence in the enduring nature of the bilateral ties between Spain, Morocco, and the European Union. 

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Planas dismissed any notion that a CJEU decision could jeopardize the positive and stable relationship between the two countries.

“Regardless of the outcome of tomorrow’s ruling, our relations with Morocco and the European Union remain strong and steadfast,” Planas said. “We are committed to working diligently to ensure their continued stability.”

Spain, along with four other European nations, has openly supported the legality of the existing agreements with Morocco. 

Planas assured that Spain would respect the CJEU’s decision and would take appropriate measures to address any resulting consequences.

The European Court of Justice had announced that it will deliver its ruling on October 4th regarding an appeal against the annulment of a fisheries agreement between the European Union and Morocco.

The appeal was filed by the Council of the European Union following a previous ruling by the Court in September 2021 that declared the agreement invalid. 

The decision sparked widespread debate as the outcome is seen as crucial for the future of economic cooperation between the EU and Morocco, particularly in the fisheries and trade sectors.

Hespress sources previously said that the EU institution’s appeal centers on overturning the previous ruling, which the Council and Commission consider a “precedent-setting error.” 

The initial judgment was based on legal challenges brought by the Polisario Front, which claimed to represent the population of the southern regions in legal disputes.

In March, an advocate general at the court recommended upholding the trade deal but invalidating the fishing agreement, citing concerns about the treatment of Western Sahara and its adjacent waters.

While the advocate general’s opinion is not binding, it carries significant weight and is often considered by the CJEU when making its final determination. 

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.

Politics
Moroccan Sahara: Focus turns to UN Security Council’s next vote
Saturday 24 October 2026 - 16:00

Moroccan Sahara: Focus turns to UN Security Council’s next vote

Politics
Morocco allocates MAD 19.4 billion for gas, sugar and wheat subsidies in 2027
Saturday 24 October 2026 - 14:00

Morocco allocates MAD 19.4 billion for gas, sugar and wheat subsidies in 2027

International
French police arrest 135 people, seize weapons: minister
Saturday 24 October 2026 - 12:46

French police arrest 135 people, seize weapons: minister

Politics
Morocco’s next government faces pressure to turn investment into jobs and better services
Saturday 24 October 2026 - 12:05

Morocco’s next government faces pressure to turn investment into jobs and better services