Such statements "can only harm the bilateral relations between the Istiqlal Party and the Spanish Popular Party and undermine the common interests of both peoples," El Fassi said in a statement.
    It is unfortunate that a "senior Spanish official sides with the allegations circulated by some Spanish media which caused a big media scandal," El Fassi underlined, stressing that these false statements "lay bare the colonial spirit of its supporters and are part of an impassioned electoral campaign."
    El Fassi also underlined that these statements "only further strengthen the Moroccan people's commitment to its legitimate rights and the defense of its interests in a climate of mobilization and unity."