The suspension of maritime links with Morocco due to coronavirus has had a negative impact on the port of Sète, resulting in the blocking of the return of many French motorhome travelers and the delay in the reception operation for Moroccans Residing Abroad (MREs) called Marhaba 2020. The time has come to reflect on the restart of the port.
The operation to welcome Moroccans residing abroad has been delayed but will not be canceled due to the health situation caused by covid-19. Today, Morocco cannot afford to do without several hundred thousand MREs who still wish to spend their vacations in the country.
Initially scheduled to start on June 5, the reception operation for MREs has been delayed this year due to the coronavirus epidemic. The exact start date is not yet known, but it should likely begin in early July.
This is a strong measure that has just been decided by the Moroccan authorities. With a view to the return of MREs during the next summer holidays, they are required to have a negative covid-19 test. If this is not the case, they will not be able to board.
Before their return to Morocco, for those who wish to go there despite the coronavirus pandemic, Moroccans Residing Abroad (MREs) must absolutely respect certain rules. These will be reminded to all travelers when purchasing their tickets.
Morocco should organize its "Operation Marhaba 2020" from July 15, 2020 without referring to Spain.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccans Residing Abroad, Nasser Bourita, affirmed on Tuesday, in Rabat, that the Marhaba Operation will take place according to the evolution of the health situation and in compliance with the barrier measures.
While the health crisis related to the coronavirus is still affecting many countries in the world, the question arises as to whether the Marhaba 2020 operation will take place. Will Moroccans living abroad (MRE) be able to return this summer?
Moroccan expatriates will not be able to go to Morocco in June this year as usual due to the covid-19 pandemic. Their return to the kingdom to enjoy the summer vacation would only be possible after July 1st.
The return of Moroccans residing abroad to their country of origin this summer is still not on the agenda, according to Spanish media, which consider that the special health measures adopted in each of the countries concerned do not facilitate consultation on the subject.
According to the Customs and Indirect Taxes Administration (ADII), more than 2.9 million Moroccans living abroad (MRE) returned to Morocco during the Marhaba 2019 campaign; which represents an increase of 4% compared to 2018.
Moroccans living abroad (MRE) who are used to passing through Spain to go to Morocco will probably not be able to do so this year. The Spanish authorities are seriously considering blocking all passages during the summer season.