The Saudi-Moroccan Joint Commission concluded its meeting here Tuesday after adopting a series of resolutions to promote cooperation in trade, investment, transport, housing, infrastructure, agriculture, tourism, food and traditional industries.
Foreign Minister Prince Saud Al-Faisal, who chaired the Saudi side, emphasized the commission’s role in strengthening Saudi-Moroccan relations under the leadership of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah and Moroccan King Muhammad.
“Our trade exchange has grown by 20 percent and the Saudi Fund for Development has financed about 40 projects in Morocco,” Prince Saud pointed out. The formation of a joint investment company with a capital of 800 million Moroccan dirhams is another vital achievement, he said.
In his keynote speech, Prince Saud highlighted the growing relations between two Arab countries at the level of official contracts and exchange of visits by businessmen.
“We have succeeded in solving problems related to marine transportation, which was one of the obstacles facing smooth flow of trade,” the Saudi chief diplomat said.
“There is a study to establish a direct shipping line between the two countries in addition to encouraging Saudi-Moroccan contracting companies,” he said.
Prince Saud referred to political, economic and social cooperation between the two countries aimed at boosting progress and prosperity of their peoples. He described Saudi-Moroccan ties as a model for inter-Arab cooperation. He decried the crises facing some Arab countries, adding that some of them were caused by foreign intervention.
“We have to work together to face these challenges and strengthen Arab security and stability,” he said.
Prince Saud said he was happy over the return of peace and stability to Egypt and commended the new government in Cairo for going ahead with its roadmap with the participation of all political parties.
Prince Saud expressed his hope that the meeting of Saudi-Moroccan businessmen would strengthen cooperation between private sectors in the two countries.
Moroccan Minister of Foreign Minister Saaduddin Al-Usmani presided over his country’s side.
The meeting, which was attended by senior officials and business leaders from both countries, discussed ways of expanding cooperation as well as major regional and international issues.
JEDDAH: P.K. ABDUL GHAFOUR | ARAB NEWS STAFF
Published — Wednesday 28 August 2013
