Youssoufi proud to have pitched in for political alternation in Morocco
Morocco, Politics, 12/20/2000

When the late king Hassan II steered the country on the path of change, we have positively responded to his call, said premier Abderrahmane Youssoufi, adding he was proud to have contributed to political alternation in Morocco.

In an interview to Spanish daily "El Pais," he said he was endeavoring to secure "transparency" to coming elections and to become the first prime minister to organize fully transparent general elections and retire from political activity.

Youssoufi voiced hope Moroccans will massively opt for political parties which contributed to transition and not give in to emotions backing those saying Islam is the solution. "Islam is our faith" but "fundamentalists have no political program," he pointed out.

Of the Sahara issue, the prime minister said the region specifics were catered for in Moroccan decentralizing scheme and will be taken into account in the kingdom's offer for the Sahara. Sahrawis will be able to run their own affairs, he said, adding regional warding models in other countries are being examined.

He voiced trust in the region leaders and their wisdom not to allow separatists resume armed struggle.

Dealing with fishery talks with the European Union, Youssoufi recalled how Moroccan fish resources have deteriorated saying that is why Rabat seeks a new kind of accord based on cooperation, not mere fishing, and expressed the wish European partners would listen.

The premier surveyed efforts exerted in fighting illegal immigration and instruments set up such as the agency for the development and promotion of northern provinces and said Morocco suffered more from the phenomenon with arrivals of sub-Saharans seeking their way to Europe who become active in illegal activity and a burden for the country's health, security and legal systems.

Previous Stories:
  Morocco and Slovakia sign protocol for consultations between foreign ministers   (12/19/2000)
  Morocco made historical decisions in favor of Palestinian people, Erekat said   (12/19/2000)
  Press union flatly turns down draft press code   (12/19/2000)

Please add a link on your webiste pointing to ArabicNews.com and bookmark ArabicNews.com & subscribe to our daily email news bulletin.

Search