Morocco, France begin new bilateral ties era

Moroccan King Mohammad VI received on Monday French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius who is on a two-day visit to the country.
The meeting focused on bilateral relations, the regional security environment and notably the fight against terrorism and various regional and international issues of common interest, the Royal Court said in a statement.
The statement noted that the meeting also focused on strong and serene future prospects of bilateral ties in all fields.
Before his arrival, Fabius said that Morocco is a "main partner" to France, stressing that his country is committed to work with Morocco in every step.
The French minister also expressed to local media that he intends to hold talks with Moroccan officials to bolster economic relations and provide unique opportunity to joint projects in energy, transportation, alternative energy, and tourism.
Meanwhile, Morocco and France expressed satisfaction to opening a new chapter to their relationship, which reflects on their strong and exceptional relations throughout history.
A joint statement echoed such sentiments after talks between the two country's foreign ministers which also highlighted the new era, and commitment to maintain and protect bilateral relations with the spirit of friendship, and mutual respect.
The two countries also emphasized their joint and full cooperation in the security field, and to boost judicial active cooperation between the two countries, particularly after meetings which took place earlier between the two countries Justice and Interior ministers.
The statement highlighted the two foreign ministers' hopes to speed up approving the protocol of a judicial and cooperation agreement, which was signed last February 6th.
The statement noted on the previous high ranking ministerial meeting in the past, which would pave the way for determining a joint road map for the two countries and a number of new projects.
France also expressed support to Morocco openness, reform, and progress witnessed in the country in various fields.
In the joint statement France expressed support to efforts exerted by the UN to reach a political settlement regarding the Moroccan Sahara issue.