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Spanish royals make historic visit to Ceuta and Melilla

Felipe VI and Letizia visit Ceuta and Melilla for the first time in two decades amid tensions with Morocco and local protests.

14 October 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Spanish royals make historic visit to Ceuta and Melilla — Photo: Presidencia de la República Mexicana · Flickr · BY

The kings of Spain, Felipe VI and Letizia, have begun a historic visit to Ceuta and Melilla, marking the first time in two decades that a Spanish head of state has visited these autonomous cities. This trip comes against a significant political backdrop, as it was announced ahead of the early general elections scheduled for November 29.

The visit aims to ease tensions in the region following the migration crisis that occurred about two months ago. During the first day, the monarchs were greeted with applause and flags by local residents gathered at the Assembly Palace, underscoring the local interest in this visit.

However, minority groups have organized protest actions at the borders in rejection of Felipe VI's presence. These demonstrations recall the controversy generated by the previous visit of King Juan Carlos I in 2007, which culminated in the withdrawal of the Moroccan ambassador from Madrid.

Morocco has expressed its caution regarding this visit. It has been mentioned that the Spanish government does not rule out the possibility of Morocco recalling its ambassador in response to the royals' visit. Spanish authorities have tried to avoid inconveniencing Rabat by arguing that the entry of warships into Spanish waters in July was significant.

The visit could have repercussions on bilateral relations.

During their visit, the king reaffirmed that Ceuta and Melilla are non-negotiable territories, emphasizing that their defense is an obligation for Spain. This message arrives at a time when the relationship between Spain and Morocco faces challenges, in a context marked by political and social tension in the region.

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