Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has embarked on a significant tour of West Africa, aiming to enhance cooperation with Mauritania and The Gambia in addressing the increasing influx of migrants. During his visit, Sánchez signed bilateral agreements with both nations to combat people smuggling and promote legal migration.
The memorandums of understanding focus on “circular migration,” creating a framework for regular entry into Spain based on labor needs, particularly targeting young people and women. Additionally, Spain and Mauritania signed a “declaration of intent” to bolster their collaboration in fighting organized crime, including human trafficking.
The Canary Islands, situated off the northwest coast of Africa, have seen a notable rise in migrant arrivals. Spain’s coastguard has been rescuing boats carrying dozens of African migrants almost daily. The Atlantic route remains perilous, with thousands of deaths and disappearances reported each year.
Mauritania and The Gambia, along with Senegal, are key departure points for these dangerous journeys. Madrid estimates that around 200,000 people in Mauritania are waiting to make the crossing to the Canaries. To address this crisis, Spain and its West African partners have signed joint declarations committing to “safe, orderly, and regular migration.”
Sánchez emphasized the importance of combating illegal people smugglers and managing migration in a “humane, safe, and orderly way.” While acknowledging the substantial increase in migrant arrivals, he reiterated that “immigration is not a problem, but a necessity that comes with certain problems.” He called for collaboration in fighting human trafficking and the exploitation of migrants.
Spain’s circular migration pilot project with Mauritania will initially last one year. Spain will communicate job offers to Mauritania, which will select candidates for work. Successful candidates will undergo interviews, obtain visas, sign contracts, and agree to return to their country at the end of their employment. Beyond migration agreements, Sánchez pledged financial support to Mauritania for defense and security training and announced the establishment of a Cervantes Institute to promote Spanish language and culture.
As Sánchez continues his tour, his visit to The Gambia marks the first official visit by a Spanish head of government since the establishment of bilateral relations. He is expected to further strengthen Spain’s ties with West Africa and announce a new strategy for relations with the region in the coming weeks.