Algiers – Overcoming hurdles to promoting Moroccan-Algeria relations in all fields constitutes “the top priority” for Morocco, visiting Foreign Minister Saad Eddine El Othmani said on Monday in Algiers.
“We deem that overcoming hurdles to promoting political, economic relations and cooperation in all fields between Morocco and Algeria is the top priority for us,” El Othmani said during a joint news conference with his Algerian counterpart Mourad Mdeleci after talks between the two sides.
El Othmani, who highlighted that relations between the two countries and the two peoples have “more than a special” nature at the level of history, civilisation and culture, said the two countries are history-bound to endeavour to develop their relations in all areas and therefore realize the two peoples’ aspirations for progress, development and a better future.
“By promoting their ties, Morocco and Algeria can play a key role as major stakeholders at the Maghreb, regional, Arab, African and international levels,” the minister said.
El Othmani said he discussed with Medelci bilateral relations and ways of boosting Maghreb cooperation.
He underlined a joint willingness to give a fresh impetus to bilateral relations, adding that a precise programme of action between the two sides will be set up.
The two ministers examined a number or proposals, including the diversification of fields of cooperation and encouraging meetings between businessmen, companies, MPs and civil society players towards promoting cooperation and exchanging experiences and know-how.
El Othmani said that the two sides proposed to meet every six months to assess achievements.
At the Maghreb level, the two parties agreed to pursue cooperation and consultations to overcome the status quo in the Arab Maghreb Union in order to revitalize its institutions.
