Madrid, October 2, 2026 – The Europe Today: French President Emmanuel Macron has called for continued cooperation between European countries and Morocco on migration, stressing the importance of coordination and shared responsibility in addressing irregular migration and related security challenges.
Macron made the remarks during his state visit to Spain, where he met Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez on September 30 to discuss bilateral relations, energy cooperation, migration and broader European issues.
Addressing the issue of the recent migration crisis in Ceuta, Macron expressed solidarity with Spain and described the episode as involving multiple dimensions, including information campaigns that encouraged vulnerable people to undertake dangerous journeys.
He said European countries should respond through solidarity and responsibility rather than confrontation, emphasizing the importance of coordinated European action in managing migration and protecting common borders.
Macron stressed that cooperation with Moroccan authorities should continue, particularly in efforts to address irregular migration and facilitate the return of migrants who are not eligible to remain in the European Union.
He also called for stronger coordination among European countries and within the European Union, particularly in the Schengen area, to prevent irregular migration movements and respond more effectively to emerging challenges.
The French president said greater cooperation was also needed in the digital sphere, noting that information campaigns conducted online could contribute to irregular migration movements.
Macron further emphasized the importance of implementing the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, which establishes common mechanisms for managing migration, asylum procedures, border controls and returns.
Morocco has maintained cooperation with Spain in addressing irregular migration and human trafficking. Following the recent Ceuta crisis, Rabat and Madrid reached an emergency arrangement concerning the return of people who had entered the Spanish-administered enclave.
The French president’s remarks come amid continued European discussions over migration management, border security and cooperation with countries of origin and transit. He emphasized that European solidarity, coordinated responsibility and cooperation with partner countries are essential elements of an effective migration policy.
