Spain’s Foreign Minister on Friday reaffirmed his country’s respect for the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling on agricultural and fisheries agreements between the EU and Morocco.

Despite the judgement, José Manuel Albares stated Spain’s commitment to maintaining the “strategic partnership” with Morocco, highlighting the benefits to both agriculture and fisheries.

Albares assured that Spain will continue to work alongside the European Union and Morocco to “preserve and further develop this privileged relationship.”

Similarly, France confirmed its strong commitment to its exceptional partnership with Morocco.

In light of the ECJ ruling, the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs affirmed that the relationship between the EU and Morocco remains of “strategic importance” and that they would work to deepen economic cooperation.

The Ministry also referenced President Emmanuel Macron’s letter to HM King Mohammed VI on Morocco’s Throne Day, in which he affirmed France’s determination to support Morocco’s economic and social development efforts, particularly in the Sahara region.

Hungary, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the EU Council, echoed these sentiments, calling for stronger cooperation with Morocco.

“We will continue to work to serve these interests by strengthening ties and expanding cooperation with Morocco into new areas,” stated the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.