Spain rejects Morocco's call for Ceuta talks - China Daily Global Edition

Spain rejects Morocco's call for Ceuta talks. The Spanish government has rejected Morocco's request to hold talks on the sovereignty of Ceuta and Melilla, two Spanish enclaves on the North African coast. A spokesperson for the Spanish Foreign Ministry stated that the issue is not up for discussion and that Ceuta and Melilla are an integral part of Spain. The statement comes after Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita reiterated his country's claim to the territories during a press conference in Rabat. Morocco has long claimed sovereignty over Ceuta and Melilla, which were ceded to Spain in the 15th and 16th centuries respectively. The two cities have a significant Moroccan population and are strategically important due to their proximity to the Strait of Gibraltar.