Morocco Responds to EU Court's Cancellation of Fisheries and Agriculture Agreements
Moroccan officials have stated that the recent cancellation of fisheries and agriculture agreements with Europe by the European Court of Justice will not hinder the growth of these sectors in the country. Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Mohamed Sadiki, emphasized the importance of national sovereignty during a ministerial meeting of the Blue Belt Initiative, which focuses on marine biodiversity protection. He remarked, "The European court's decision concerns the Europeans; we are not concerned with it," indicating Morocco's commitment to its own developmental agenda despite external rulings.
Sadiki highlighted that there remains a strong desire among certain European countries to maintain and develop their relationship with Morocco, despite the court's ruling. He expressed confidence that both agriculture and fishing are on a trajectory of significant growth within Africa, with ongoing efforts to enhance market access and international opportunities.
Moroccan Government Condemns EU Court Ruling
In a strong reaction to the European Court of Justice's ruling, the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the decision as a "blatant political bias." The ministry criticized the ruling, claiming it contained numerous legal flaws and factual inaccuracies. The statement called upon the European Commission and EU member states to uphold their international commitments and protect the gains of their partnership with Morocco.
The court's decision was based on the assertion that the European Commission had violated the right of the people of Western Sahara to self-determination by engaging in trade agreements with Morocco. This ruling reignites discussions surrounding one of Africa's most enduring territorial disputes, which has persisted since Spain withdrew from the region in 1975.
