Morocco's swift aid to Spain in the aftermath of devastating floods underscores the profound ties between the two nations, Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska stated on Wednesday. His remarks were delivered via video during a ceremony in Valencia, organized to honor the Moroccan relief teams as they concluded their mission.
Grande-Marlaska lauded the remarkable dedication of the Moroccan teams, dispatched urgently under the directives of King Mohammed VI, to assist in the Valencia region's recovery efforts. He emphasized that Spain will remain forever grateful for this «precious assistance» during such a challenging time.
The minister highlighted the significance of this act of solidarity, noting that 103 Moroccan personnel made a «significant contribution» to rehabilitating the affected areas. These teams managed to repair over 350 kilometers of damaged infrastructure and clear 200 garages, offering «valuable assistance» that facilitated the resumption of local activities.
El contingente marroquí ?? vuelve a casa
— Ministerio del Interior (@interiorgob) January 9, 2025
Balance del trabajo realizado en la zona cero de la #dana?
? Desatoro alcantarillado (5.000 puntos)
? Aspiración lodo depósitos de acopio
? Liberación alcantarillado (350 km)
? Limpieza lodo (200 garajes)
? Baldeo de calles (30 km) pic.twitter.com/ERl23NHfT9
«Your hard work, commitment, and generosity have left an indelible mark on the hearts of Spaniards,» Grande-Marlaska remarked. «Spain will always remember this fraternal assistance and exemplary cooperation.»
The event was attended by numerous Spanish officials, including local authorities, elected representatives, and civil defense members, all of whom expressed their collective gratitude to Morocco for its invaluable support.
Virginia Barcones, Director General of the Civil Defense, conveyed her deep appreciation to King Mohammed VI for Morocco's «decisive and effective» aid in the relief operations in Valencia. She praised the responsiveness and efficacy of the resources mobilized by Morocco, calling it a gesture of exemplary solidarity that highlights the robust partnership between Spain and Morocco.
The ceremony also featured the presentation of certificates of appreciation to the Moroccan teams, acknowledging their exceptional contributions to the reconstruction efforts and the support provided to the affected communities.
Two notable Moroccan convoys, consisting of 37 pumping and suction trucks and 103 workers, were dispatched to aid the relief efforts in the Valencia region, which was severely impacted by Storm Dana.