Figuig- SE Morocco

I visited the water and forest department in Figuig yesterday to look at their info kiosks and provide input on ways to fill the interior of an empty building. While there, I looked at one of the maps of the local reserve and thought the geopolitics of Figuig's placement next to Algeria quite entertaining. When sitting on the beach in Saida, we're often amused to look at Algerians swimming in the next beach over, seperated by flags and border guards. Saida, however, has nothing on Algeria. After the border was closed in 1994, those unfortunate family members or friends living just East of Figuig (approximately 2 km) were seperated from their loved ones. When asked what improvements they would like made in the community, many residents first response is an open border. In the meantime, some will cross the border illegally at night, just like those petrol barons I know up North.