Spain allocates €85 million aid package to Morocco

Spain has identified Morocco as a key beneficiary in its newly announced €85 million aid program for 2025. This decision follows an earlier allocation of €30 million to Morocco’s interior ministry through 2023.

The Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) disclosed that the funding will focus on critical areas such as gender equality, the fight against gender-based violence, and the promotion of sustainable tourism in vital Moroccan regions, including Marrakech, Greater Casablanca, and the coastal provinces of Souss-Massa.

According to recent data from the Spanish treasury, Morocco’s interior ministry has emerged as the foremost beneficiary among foreign entities, having received around €30 million up to September 2023. This allocation is part of a broader strategy by the Spanish government, which has distributed approximately €300 million in grants to around 250 foreign organizations across Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America.

The recent designation for Morocco comes amid ongoing Spanish investments in the country. Earlier this year, Spain committed €2.5 million for border surveillance enhancements, which included the purchase of 183 motorcycles valued at €660,000 and 33 vehicles costing a total of €1.9 million.

In addition, Spain previously sanctioned €2.6 million in emergency funds for the renovation of the historic Spanish Hospital in Tangier. This facility functions both as a nursing home for Spanish citizens and as a day healthcare center.

Further allocations included €4.12 million for the installation of 20 video surveillance systems aimed at bolstering Morocco's police capabilities. This initiative, awarded to Madrid-based security firm Etel 88 S.A., is designed to enhance cooperation in combating terrorism, human trafficking, and organized crime.

Since 2019, Spain has funneled tens of millions of euros to Rabat for migration control initiatives. This bilateral collaboration has been reinforced by the European Union, which has contributed over €360 million since 2013, including €234 million from the EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa.

In conclusion, Spain's commitment to Morocco through substantial financial aid signifies a strengthened partnership aimed at addressing critical social issues and enhancing security measures in the region.