London – UK deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg reiterated his country’s support for the new Moroccan government, led by Abdelilah Benkirane.
“The last twelve months have witnessed unprecedented change in North Africa,” Clegg said in stateament.
He added that he discussed, in a phone conversation with Benkirane, Morocco’s internal reforms and the opportunities and challenges faced by the newly elected government.
“I made clear the UK’s support, both bilaterally and through the EU, for Morocco’s plans for political and economic reform,” he said.
He recalled his country’s assistance, through the Arab Partnership Fund, for Morocco in its efforts to increase rates of political participation and target corruption in public life.
Clegg noted that they also discussed the ongoing unrest throughout the Middle East and North Africa region including the situation in Syria as well as the importance the UK attaches to a more integrated North Africa for the long-term security and prosperity of the region.
