Latest news with #Moroccan-Spanish
Ya Biladi
21-07-2025
- Politics
- Ya Biladi
OMDH condemns racist violence in Torre Pacheco and far-right incitement in Spain
A week after the violence in Torre Pacheco, in Spain's Murcia province, the Moroccan Organization for Human Rights (OMDH) has denounced what it calls «racist persecution against immigrants, the majority of whom are Moroccan nationals who have lived there for over two decades». In a statement issued Monday, the association voiced concern over «the rise of far-right racism, which targets migrants in Spain, threatens the social fabric, and reignites fear and hatred». The OMDH also warned of the potential impact of these events on Moroccan-Spanish relations, Spain's image among Moroccans, and the progress made in integrating immigrants into Spanish society. The group strongly condemned «racist acts committed by members of the far-right VOX party», along with «incitement to hatred by far-right-aligned media outlets and social media accounts». The organization further criticized how the far right exploits the issue of migration and minor incidents for political gain, turning them into campaign talking points. In response, the OMDH called on «democratic forces and human rights defenders in Spain» to stand up against what it described as a growing wave of racism and intolerance in all its forms. The NGO also urged the launch of a formal investigation into the racist incidents in Torre Pacheco, emphasizing the need to hold accountable both those who commit such acts and those who promote hate speech, discrimination, and xenophobia. The events of Monday, July 14, also drew a response from Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who declared that «racism is incompatible with democracy». He added, «What's happening in Torre Pacheco is a challenge for all of us. We must speak out, take firm action, and defend the values that unite us. Spain is a country of rights, not hatred».
Ya Biladi
21-07-2025
- Ya Biladi
Torre-Pacheco : Footballer Omar Hilali calls for the expulsion of Moroccans who «don't come to work»
In the wake of recent violence in Torre Pacheco, a town in the Murcia region, Moroccan international footballer Omar El Hilali, who plays for Espanyol, has spoken out against the negative impact such incidents have on the perception of immigrants striving for a better life in Spain. In an interview with Betevé, the 23-year-old El Hilali remarked, «These actions tarnish the reputation of those of us who come here to work and integrate. While the majority work hard to make a living, there is a small group that does not share this goal». Born in L'Hospitalet de Llobregat to a family of Moroccan immigrants, El Hilali emphasized the need for action, stating, «Anyone who does not come to work should be sent back to their country, regardless of their nationality». The Moroccan-Spanish player, who represented Morocco's under-23 team in 2023, also shared his frustrations with the stereotypes he encounters, asserting, «People who don't know I'm a football player look at me as if I've committed 40 crimes». He recounted a troubling incident involving his mother, who was wrongfully accused of theft in a store while with her grandchild. The staff's demeanor shifted once he arrived and was recognized as a well-known player, prompting an apology to his mother. For the record, Torre Pacheco recently experienced unrest two weeks ago, leading to the arrest of 13 individuals and the identification of 120 others, most with known records of violence. The turmoil erupted following an assault by two youths on an elderly man, sparking targeted violence against immigrants, predominantly Moroccans.
Ya Biladi
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Ya Biladi
Granada hosts conference on cultural diplomacy between Morocco and Spain
The city of Granada, Spain, recently hosted an international conference on cultural diplomacy with Morocco, held on July 18. Organized by the Moroccan League of Young Newspaper Publishers, the event focused on «the role of cultural, artistic, and media diplomacy in building bridges between countries», with Morocco and Spain presented as a case study. Held at the Euro-Arab Foundation for Higher Studies, the gathering brought together artists, intellectuals, journalists, and filmmakers from both countries to explore how culture can be used to promote coexistence and mutual understanding. According to local media outlet Granada Es Noticia, the program included various activities, such as roundtable discussions and the launch of a promotional teaser for the film Camino/Tariq, a Moroccan-Spanish co-production set to be filmed in both countries. María Ortega Castillo, Deputy Mayor of Víznar and Municipal Councilor for Culture, Education, and Equality, expressed her municipality's institutional support for the initiative. She remarked that such meetings «demonstrate the importance of cultural diplomacy at a time when hatred, marginalization, and racism are increasingly present in our society». Speaking to Granada Es Noticia, she also stressed the need to «build bridges and strengthen what unites us as peoples with a shared history, culture, and traditions». Spanish filmmaker María Casado echoed this sentiment, calling cultural and artistic diplomacy «pillars of bilateral cooperation». As director of the Camino/Tariq project, Casado added that the co-production «symbolizes a commitment not only to culture, but also to diversity, shared identity, and Mediterranean heritage». Mohamed Fajri, President of the Moroccan League of Young Newspaper Publishers, emphasized the role of cultural soft power, particularly in times of tension. «We must now involve artists, intellectuals, and communicators in this shared effort», he stated. The event seeks to lay the groundwork for long-term cooperation between Morocco and Spain, and to foster greater understanding between the Arab world and Europe.
Ya Biladi
12-06-2025
- Business
- Ya Biladi
Lamine Yamal named visa ambassador for FIFA World Cup 2026
FC Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal has been appointed the new global ambassador for Visa ahead of the FIFA World Cup 26, which will take place across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. To mark this symbolic milestone and build excitement around what promises to be the biggest FIFA World Cup ever, Visa will offer exclusive experiences to Visa cardholders. These include meet-and-greet opportunities with Lamine Yamal in Barcelona and signed memorabilia ahead of the 2026 tournament, according to a press release. «Lamine represents the future of football: bold, promising, and full of fresh energy», said Tarek Abdalla, Visa's Chief Marketing Officer for the CEMEA region. «At Visa, we are constantly looking for new ways to connect with fans through the power of sport. As Visa's FIFA World Cup ambassador, Lamine reflects the spirit and passion of the beautiful game, inspiring millions of fans worldwide». «Football is more than a sport, it's a source of joy and a way to bring people together across the world. I'm proud to team up with Visa to share that passion and inspire others through sport», said Yamal. A football prodigy, Lamine Yamal continues to captivate the global stage with record-breaking performances. Known for his agility, speed, and vision on the field, the Moroccan-Spanish player is widely regarded as a rising global star and a symbol of a new generation in football.
Morocco World
04-06-2025
- Health
- Morocco World
Operation Marhaba 2025: 29 Ships Prepare for 3.5 Million Travelers
Doha – Morocco has finalized preparations for Operation Marhaba 2025, focusing on four key priorities: traffic flow management, strengthened security, proximity support, and enhanced health vigilance. Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita outlined these measures during a weekly oral questions session at the House of Councilors on Tuesday. The maritime component will feature 29 vessels from seven shipping companies operating 12 routes from ports in Italy, France, and Spain. Approximately MAD 28 million ($2.8 million) has been allocated to improve reception infrastructure at the Tanger-Med port. This year's operation anticipates an exceptional influx of approximately 3.5 million travelers, mainly Moroccans residing in Europe, representing a 4% increase from previous years. An estimated 890,000 vehicles are expected to cross the strait this summer, marking a 5% increase. This rise may be linked to the Spanish government's regularization program, allowing thousands of migrants to normalize their status and travel. The operation will feature over 12,000 maritime crossings—an 84% increase compared to 2004. 'Security and safety will be reinforced through enhanced border control mechanisms,' Bourita said. The operation will deploy 24 reception centers—18 within Morocco and six abroad—along with additional human resources in accordance with royal instructions. Read also: Marhaba 2024: Nearly 1.9 Million Passengers Have Passed Through Moroccan Ports The 36th meeting of the Moroccan-Spanish joint commission, initially planned for Tangier but relocated to Cadiz, finalized coordination measures that will be implemented between June 15 and September 15. Consulates will maintain their traditional extended schedule during this period, including weekend and holiday service. Staff numbers will increase, and mobile consulates will be established 'to support this large-scale operation under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, benefiting three million citizens,' according to the minister. Health vigilance remains a priority with specialized teams positioned along routes and at rest areas. 'The goal is to improve this operation year after year, to meet His Majesty the King's ambition,' Bourita noted. A massive joint workforce of approximately 60,000 personnel will be mobilized across all sectors. Spanish authorities announced the recruitment of at least 29,000 people, while Morocco will deploy a similar number of participants, including official institutions, administrations, volunteers, the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity, and other stakeholders. Preparations have involved multiple meetings of the National Transit Commission, chaired by the Interior Ministry. Another Moroccan-Spanish meeting was held in Cadiz on May 29, along with various thematic sectoral meetings. Streamlined reentry for Moroccan expats The Customs and Indirect Tax Administration (ADII) announced new facilities for Moroccan expatriates on May 28. Notably, Moroccans aged 60 and above who have lived abroad for at least ten years can now benefit from a 90% reduction on the value of imported vehicles. Provincial and Prefectural Customs Directors can now validate applications based on authenticated documents, including residence certificates, foreign ID cards with overseas addresses, or consular registration cards. The administration has also simplified procedures for returning expatriates, who can benefit from a three-year aging allowance on their vehicle's age, limited to one vehicle per person and once in a lifetime. Previously required two-year pay slips for employees or tax declarations for merchants are no longer necessary. In Ceuta, authorities have launched a mobile application called 'Embolsamiento Ceuta' to manage traffic flow toward Morocco. Available in Spanish, French, and English, the app provides real-time estimates of waiting times at the Tarajal border crossing. Users receive a digital ticket with a QR code required for entry and exit from the regulation area, with paper tickets available for those without smartphones. Ceuta has also increased staffing with up to ten agents daily working in three shifts. Infrastructure improvements include more shaded areas and new drinking water points. Traffic forecasts predict a 4% increase in travelers and 5% in vehicles compared to last year, despite a slight decline in personal car travel. Tags: Marhaba 2025Marhaba operationNasser Bourita
