Ceuta Residents Demonstrate Strong Spanish Loyalty During Royal Visit

Thousands of local residents filled the streets to welcome the royal couple, waving Spanish and Ceuta flags and displaying signs that read, “Welcome to your home, Your Majesties.”

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Upon arriving at the Ceuta heliport, the King and Queen paused to greet citizens along the route to City Hall, engaging in handshakes and conversations with the public. The couple later appeared on the balcony of the Palace of the Assembly, overlooking Plaza de África, accompanied by Ceuta’s president, Juan Vivas.

The two-day itinerary includes a series of engagements, such as meetings with local officials, a visit to a school, and discussions with civil society representatives. Additionally, the royal couple will pay tribute at the Sidi Embarek Muslim cemetery to honor those who perished during the mass sea crossings in July.

The visit takes place against a backdrop of diplomatic tension, as Morocco continues to claim sovereignty over the Spanish North African cities of Ceuta and Melilla. This trip follows a severe migration crisis in July, during which over 70,000 people entered Ceuta from Morocco within two days. The situation led Morocco to recall its ambassador to Madrid and prompted King Mohammed VI to criticize the “instrumentalisation” of the crisis.

For the people of Ceuta, the significant turnout served as a clear public affirmation of the city’s Spanish identity. After spending the night in Ceuta, the royal couple is scheduled to travel to Melilla on Wednesday.

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