Melilla Officials Accuse Morocco and Spain of Economic Stagnation
Melilla officials have recently voiced strong concerns about the economic challenges facing the city, shifting their focus to Morocco’s management of the 2025 Marhaba operation. The criticism highlights growing tensions over the impact of cross-border policies on the autonomous city.
Manuel Angel Quevedo, president of the Melilla Port Authority, has accused Morocco of employing a “deliberate strategy” aimed at weakening Melilla’s position and diverting passenger traffic to Moroccan ports. He pointed out that Morocco is actively disrupting the Beni Ansar border crossing while making it easier for travelers to enter through Nador. According to Quevedo, this shift is leading more people to choose the Nador port, where passport stamps are issued directly on the ferry, saving them significant time compared to the lengthy waits at Beni Ansar.
The issue extends beyond Morocco, as Quevedo also criticized Spain’s central government for failing to protect Melilla’s interests. He argued that while other regions receive support, Melilla is being neglected. “They defend their own, but we don’t defend ours,” he said, highlighting what he perceives as official indifference to the city’s struggles. He described the situation as a form of “deliberate discrimination” against Melilla.
Quevedo warned that without improved operations at the border, especially with dedicated lanes for travelers who might miss their ferries, entire families could face waiting periods of up to 24 to 48 hours just to leave the city. He also pointed out that the reduction in ferry services has exacerbated the problem. The number of trips has dropped from 21 to only 12, severely limiting the port’s capacity to handle delays or emergencies.
Despite these challenges, the number of travelers passing through the port between January 1 and May 31 remained nearly the same as the previous year. There was a slight increase of just 300 passengers, indicating that the overall trend has not changed significantly.
Key Issues Highlighted by Melilla Officials
- Moroccan Policies: Accusations that Morocco is intentionally disrupting the Beni Ansar border crossing to favor its own ports.
- Ferry Services Reduction: A decrease in ferry trips from 21 to 12, which limits the port’s ability to manage delays and emergencies.
- Border Management Concerns: Calls for designated lanes at the border to prevent long waits for travelers.
- Economic Impact: Warnings that the current situation could lead to further economic stagnation for Melilla.
- Government Neglect: Criticism of Spain’s central government for not adequately supporting the city.
The situation reflects broader concerns about the balance of power and economic cooperation between Spain and Morocco. As the 2025 Marhaba operation approaches, the pressure on both sides to resolve these issues is likely to increase. For now, Melilla officials remain vocal in their demands for action, emphasizing the need for urgent improvements to ensure the city’s continued viability.
