According to Driss Lachgar, first secretary of the Union socialiste des forces populaires (USFP), events concerning Sebta and Melilla must not distract from Morocco’s national priorities, such as the upcoming UN Security Council meeting in October regarding the Moroccan Sahara. Speaking on the television program “La voie vers les élections 2026,” Lachgar addressed recent political developments, European Parliament voting, and diplomatic relations.
European Parliament Vote on Sebta and Melilla Border Crossings
Appearing on the television program “La voie vers les élections 2026,” Driss Lachgar answered questions regarding a vote held on a Thursday by the European Parliament. That parliamentary vote called on Morocco and Spain to return migrants who had crossed the borders into the occupied city of Sebta. Lachgar separated the presence of an event in the news from the broader political file of Sebta and Melilla.
During the migration crisis, Lachgar stated that the USFP maintained a clear stance. According to the party leader, they avoided blaming the Moroccan government to prevent extreme right factions and anti-migrant groups from exploiting the situation against the Moroccan diaspora abroad.
Did You Know? During his televised appearance, Driss Lachgar referenced a past migration crisis where certain right-wing European leaders characterized Moroccan migrants using severe terminology, while praising King Mohammed VI for managing the situation to avoid escalation.
Spanish Relations and Regional Escalation Warnings
Lachgar highlighted the conduct of the socialist government of Pedro Sanchez during the migration wave. According to the USFP leader, Sanchez resisted pressure from right-wing and extreme right factions attempting to damage relations with Rabat and assign blame for the border arrivals. Lachgar warned that any escalation risks altering the country’s strategic agenda and national priorities.
Focus on the Moroccan Sahara and UN Security Council Resolution 2703
With the UN Security Council meeting approaching in October, Lachgar emphasized that the national cause remains central to the Kingdom’s foreign policy and sovereign orientations. He stated that King Mohammed VI successfully managed these files. Priority must go toward implementing mechanisms from UN Security Council Resolution 2703 to apply the autonomy initiative.
Prudence Regarding Morocco-Israel Diplomatic Representation
When questioned about reports regarding an upgrade in diplomatic representation and the opening of embassies between Morocco and Israel—absent any official announcement from Moroccan authorities—Lachgar urged caution. He declared that he cannot base his assessment on outside sources concerning sovereign matters. The USFP leader intends to withhold judgment until the Moroccan government issues an official position.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Driss Lachgar say about the European Parliament vote?
Lachgar discussed the Thursday European Parliament vote calling on Morocco and Spain to return migrants who crossed into Sebta, distinguishing this news event from the political file of Sebta and Melilla.
What is the USFP’s stance on the Moroccan Sahara?
According to Lachgar, the national cause sits at the core of the Kingdom’s sovereign orientations, with priority shifting toward executing the mechanisms of UN Security Council Resolution 2703.
What was Lachgar’s position on diplomatic ties with Israel?
Lachgar adopted a cautious stance regarding reports of upgraded diplomatic ties and embassies, stating he will wait for an official announcement from the Moroccan government before judging.
How will upcoming international meetings influence diplomatic priorities across the region?
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