Hello 2025: Morocco and Spain Enhance Coordination to Ensure a Smooth and Secure Crossing for Moroccan Residents Abroad
Marocco-Spain Joint Transit Commission Meets in Cádiz to Prepare for Operation Marhaba 2025
The Moroccan-Spanish Joint Transit Commission convened this Wednesday in Cádiz, co-chaired by Mr. Khalid Zerouali, Wali and Director of Migration and Border Surveillance, and Ms. Susana Crisóstomo, the Spanish Deputy Secretary of State for the Interior, to prepare for Operation Marhaba 2025.
This meeting focused on coordinating operational measures between the two countries to ensure the smooth execution of this major operation, which operates under the High Patronage of His Majesty the King. Discussions covered several essential areas, including traffic flow, security, traveler assistance, communications, and preventive measures, particularly in the context of the ongoing epidemiological situation.
Morocco’s plan involves an integrated organization that brings together various sectoral efforts. It includes a substantial social assistance program initiated by the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity, mobilizing over 1,200 personnel including social workers and doctors, both in Morocco and abroad.
In terms of logistics, a robust fleet plan has been established: 29 ships from seven maritime operators will serve 12 routes, with a daily capacity of over 41,000 passengers and 10,800 vehicles, specifically on the Tangier Med-Algeciras route. Significant investments have also been made to modernize port infrastructures in Tangier Med, Nador, and Al Hoceima, enhancing passenger comfort.
Healthcare provisions are also a priority: a comprehensive medical framework will be deployed along the 3,578 km of roadways utilized by travelers, including ambulances, temporary rescue centers, mobile medical units, and healthcare staff.
Local authorities will be fully engaged through coordination cells in the relevant prefectures, while Moroccan consular representations in Spain will provide assistance, including on weekends and public holidays.
Specific measures have also been implemented to strengthen the control of maritime and road transportation, including technical inspection campaigns for vessels and the mobilization of inspectors.
A targeted communication strategy is also planned to reach Moroccans living abroad, providing them with clear, accessible, and relevant information.
On its part, Spain will enhance its operational framework by increasing port capacities, mobilizing security forces and the Red Cross, and setting up rest and information zones.
Both countries agreed to strengthen coordination between focal points to anticipate peak periods, manage ticket interchangeability, and combat ticket price speculation.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Ms. Crisóstomo praised the exemplary level of cooperation between Morocco and Spain, highlighting that Operation Marhaba serves as a model of strategic collaboration. She noted that all resources are in place to ensure a smooth and secure 2025 operation, recalling that over 3 million passengers and 800,000 vehicles cross the Strait of Gibraltar every summer.
She also emphasized the particular importance of this operation for the province of Cádiz, which alone accounts for approximately 70% of the maritime traffic associated with Marhaba, while commending local authorities for their commitment to the success of this significant event.
