The Rif Mountains National Party (PNMR), a political group advocating for the autonomy of Morocco's Rif region, has publicly defended Spanish sovereignty over the enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla. The statement, made by party leader Silya Ziani, directly challenges Morocco's long-standing claim to the territories.
Ceuta and Melilla are two Spanish autonomous cities located on the northern coast of Africa, bordering Morocco. Spain has administered them for centuries, but Morocco considers them occupied territories. The PNMR's position aligns with Spain's stance, creating a rare point of agreement between a Rif separatist movement and the Spanish state.
Analysts suggest the PNMR's declaration is primarily a strategic move against the Moroccan government, which opposes both Rif separatism and Spanish control of the enclaves. The party frames its support for Spain as a rejection of Moroccan expansionism and a defense of the right to self-determination for the Rif region.
The Moroccan government has not issued a specific response to the PNMR's latest statement. The status of Ceuta and Melilla remains a persistent diplomatic issue between Spain and Morocco, occasionally causing tensions in bilateral relations.
