ENPI INFO CENTRE
The EU reacted quickly at midday on Friday 26 February 2016 to a Moroccan decision from the previous day to “suspend all contact with European institutions, with the exception of planned exchanges” following a judgment by the EU General Court which, on 10 December 2015, questioned agricultural agreements with that country. The EU Ambassador in Rabat, Joy Rupert, was immediately summoned and he received notification of this decision.
In response, the Foreign Service’s press office issued a statement on Friday recalling that the EU “responded quickly to the Court’s decision.” They added: “We are ready to provide additional clarifications and assurances to meet Morocco’s concerns, so that contacts and cooperation can be fully restored as soon as possible”.
“The EU and Morocco have developed for many years a sustainable partnership […] Our belief is that a genuine partnership involves listening, sharing, solidarity and mutual respect between partners. Since December 2015 numerous contacts have been made on this matter at all levels between the EU and Morocco, and Morocco has been kept fully informed throughout the process, within the legal constraints that apply”.
In conclusion, the EU’s Foreign Service said: “We will assess as quickly as possible the implications of the current situation for our existing cooperation programmes.” The case could become even more complicated because the Court is also dealing with a similar complaint, this time on the fisheries agreement. The similarly difficult issue of access for Moroccan fruit and vegetables, especially tomatoes, also remains highly sensitive.
Source: http://eeas.europa.eu/statements-eeas/2016/160226_02_fr.htm
