Netherlands cannot accept double nationality, Dutch FM
Morocco-Netherlands, Politics, 6/24/2005

Visiting Dutch Foreign Minister, Bernard Bot, reiterated Thursday his country's rejection of dual-nationality for international citizens wishing to settle in the Netherlands and integrate in the Dutch society.

Bot, who was giving a conference at the school of humanities of Mohammed V university on the occasion of the celebration of the 400th anniversary of Morocco-Dutch relations, said his country's strategy is "clear" about this issue, explaining that the Netherlands does not accept two nationalities.

He ensured, however, that this procedure would not affect the relationship between these individuals and their mother countries.

The minister hailed, on the other hand, the contribution of Moroccans, during the 70s and 80s, to the economic boost of his country, adding that the 350,000 Moroccans living today in Holland contribute to enriching the Dutch cultural realm.

Bot also stressed the need for the two countries to strengthen bilateral relations in the different fields of cooperation, namely intercultural dialog, countering terrorism, promotion of human rights, good governance and economic cooperation.

In this respect, he announced the upcoming visit of the Dutch minister of Foreign Trade to consider means of reinforcing bilateral economic cooperation.

The minister, who arrived this June 22 for a three-day working visit, had earlier met with Moroccan Foreign Minister, Mohamed Benaissa, who ensured that negotiations are underway to solve the problem of double nationality, affirming that Morocco cannot deprive one of its citizens of their nationality, especially that the principle of double nationality is accepted worldwide.

During a meeting with Moroccan Premier, Driss Jettou, the two officials hailed the "friendship" relations that link the two countries, stressing the need for permanent consultation on issues of common interest, particularly the issue of the Moroccan expatriates in Holland.

Previous Stories:
  Immigration requires comprehensive approach, Dutch official   (6/15/2005)
  Book shows Moroccan soldiers' role in liberating Netherlands from Nazis   (3/11/2005)
  Prince Moulay Rachid received by Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands   (12/18/2004)

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