North Africa: Moroccans protest Spanish King's visit to Ceuta and Melilla

The Spanish king's planned visit to Ceuta and Melilla has prompted Morocco to recall its ambassador to Spain over what it called a "regrettable" move. King Mohammed VI immediately recalled the ambassador on Friday, after the Spanish government formally announced that King Juan Carlos would visit the territories on Monday. Morocco considers Ceuta and Mellila Moroccan territories and has demanded Spain end its "occupation". The territories have been under Spanish control since the 15th and 17th centuries. Spain has refused to enter into any negotiations with Morocco about the two cities.