A press release of the PM's office said El Fassi showcased, at the meeting, Morocco's achievements in the political, economic and social fields, recalling the launch of several large-scale projects, boosting democracy and promoting gender mainstreaming.

   The source also said the Belgian official hailed the "distinguished" level of bilateral cooperation relations, renewing his country's will to promote partnership with the north African kingdom, especially in the field of development in the rural world.

   Michel, who is on a three-day visit to Morocco, met earlier in the day with Agriculture Minister Aziz Akhannouch, Finance Minister, Salah Eddine Mezouar, Secretary of State at the Interior ministry, Mohammed Saad Hassar, Minister in Charge of Moroccan Expatriates, Mohammed Ameur and Foreign Minister, Taib Fassi Fihri.

   During these meetings, the minister discussed with the Moroccan officials means to boost relations between Morocco and Belgium in finance, water and sanitation, rural development, agriculture and renewable energy.

   The Belgian minister renewed, during his meeting with the Moroccan FM, his country’s support for Morocco's proposal to grant substantial autonomy to its southern provinces to reach a final settlement to the Sahara issue.

   The minister said Belgium calls for a negotiated settlement to the 33-year old conflict under the aegis of the United Nations, and expressed hope that the parties concerned will double efforts to achieve progress on this issue.

Source: MAP
News and events on Werstern Sahara issue/ Corcas