Following the invitation of the President of the House of Representatives of the Kingdom of Morocco, the Mediterranean Special Group (GSM) visited Morocco from 28 April – 2 May 2004. Headed by the GSM Chairman, Jean-Michel Boucheron (France), the delegation met with the President of the House of Representatives, Abdelwahed Radi, as well as with numerous parliamentarians and Committees. In addition, the GSM held a series of meetings with various representatives from the government including, the Minister of Human Rights, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of Habous and Islamic Affairs. The delegation – composed of members of parliament from more than 10 NATO member states – discussed with Moroccan counterparts and academics the political situation and recent developments in Morocco, regional security, anti-terrorism, cooperation with the NATO PA, among other topics.
The delegation welcomed the frank and direct exchanges, and the open discussions with Moroccan parliamentarians and authorities. The visit demonstrated that both the Assembly and the Alliance should strengthen their relations with Morocco, an undeniable friend and partner in the region. They were particularly impressed by the great interest shown by the Moroccan authorities in the activities of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly and the expressed willingness to further develop and deepen the current dialogue with the Assembly. The NATO PA will discuss the possible development of a broader framework to reinforce this cooperation during the forthcoming Spring Session of the Assembly in Bratislava, 28 May to 1 June 2004.
|