Institutional declaration by the President of the Government of Spain in view of the arrival of irregular migrants in Ceuta

Moncloa Palace, Madrid

The President of the Government of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, has appeared at Moncloa Palace in response to the sudden arrival of irregular migrants from Morocco to the Spanish city of Ceuta, which, the president said, represents a serious crisis for Spain and for Europe.

Sánchez wanted to convey to all Spaniards, especially those living in Ceuta and Melilla, that the Government of Spain will restore order in these cities and at Spain's borders as quickly as possible. "We will be firm in guaranteeing their security in the face of any challenge, in the face of any eventuality and under any circumstances," the president assured.

"The integrity of Ceuta as part of our nation, its security and the peace of mind of our compatriots and residents there, are guaranteed by the action of the Government of Spain, whatever the conditions necessary for this and with all the means available to do so", the Chief Executive stated.

The army has already been deployed in the early hours of yesterday morning and the State law enforcement forces and agencies have been reinforced. The president announced in this appearance that he will travel to Ceuta and Melilla today to show the determination with which the Government of Spain is acting.

Sánchez has spoken with King Felipe VI, with whom he has analysed the lines of action that Spain will follow, which will be coordinated by a Situation Committee approved by the Council of Ministers on Tuesday.

The President also explained that he has held talks with the Vice-President of the European Commission and High Representative, Josep Borrell, and with the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, with whom he has analysed the European response to this unusual migratory crisis at the EU's external border with Morocco. Pedro Sánchez thanked the various commissioners for their statements this morning.

The Chief Executive affirmed that his priority is to guarantee control of transit at the border with Morocco, to provide Ceuta and Melilla with all the necessary means to resolve the humanitarian crisis that this arrival of people represents, and to proceed to the immediate return of anyone who has entered Ceuta and Melilla irregularly, as provided for in the Agreements that Spain has with Morocco.

"Morocco is a partner and friend of Spain and should remain so. Care for our relations has always been part of Spain's foreign policy and must continue to be so. My wish, like that of all Spaniards, is to further strengthen our relationship and friendship with our Moroccan neighbours.

Human, historical, cultural, economic and strategic ties call us to cooperate and work together to progress together. To be fruitful and effective, such cooperation must always be based on respect.

"Respect for each other's borders is the basis on which the neighbourhood of friendly countries and fruitful relations for both are built," concluded the President in his speech.

Non official translation