Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez began a crucial three-day tour of West Africa on Tuesday, aimed at tackling the growing number of migrants making the perilous journey across the Atlantic Ocean to the Canary Islands, The Associated Press reports.
The Spanish archipelago, located near the African coast, has become a major waypoint for migrants and refugees seeking to reach continental Europe.
According to Spain’s Interior Ministry, over 22,000 people have arrived on the Canary Islands since January, more than double the figure reported for the same period last year. This influx is largely fueled by boat departures organized by smugglers from nearby coastal nations. During his visit, Sánchez will first stop in Mauritania before continuing to Gambia and Senegal — three countries that have emerged as primary departure points for overcrowded boats filled with migrants.
Among those embarking on thisjourney are thousands of Malian refugees fleeing violence and instability, as well as unemployed youth from Senegal, Mauritania, and other West African nations seeking better job prospects abroad. Alarmingly, there is also a rising number of unaccompanied minors making the trek to the Canary Islands, placing additional strain on local authorities responsible for their care.
Spanish officials are preparing for an even larger wave of arrivals this fall, as sailing conditions across the Atlantic are expected to improve. In response, Sánchez aims to sign several bilateral agreements with his counterparts in West Africa to enhance cooperation between Spanish and local security forces in combating human trafficking and people smuggling.
Additionally, Spain plans to expand its circular migration program, which allows migrants to work temporarily in Spain, particularly in sectors like agriculture. To address the root causes of migration, the Spanish government is also expected to announce new long-term investments and partnerships focused on development, connectivity, and education in the region.
This marks Sánchez’s second visit to Mauritania this year; he previously traveled there in February with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, during which they pledged some $235 million to help the country manage migration. Mauritania currently hosts around 200,000 Malian refugees along its borders.
