Spain calls for Libya's return to Euro - Mediterranean dialogue

Spanish foreign minister, Abel Matutes, Thursday said in Tunis that his country favored the reintegration of Libya in the Euro-Mediterranean dialogue if the north African country shows "serious inclination" to that effect.

Spain, being a Mediterranean country, has always pleaded for stability, prosperity and peace in the region, Matutes said, stressing that "any move for the efficient and effective reintegration of Libya back into the international community should be welcomed."

Matutes said at a news conference at the end of a short visit to Tunisia that Spain has always supported the involvement of Libya in the Euro-Mediterranean dialogue and welcomed Tripoli's latest eagerness to reintegrate the international community.

He added that the consolidation of the Euro-Mediterranean partnership process and the strengthening of ties with the Maghreb were a priority for Spain. He said this partnership and the situation in the Maghreb were at the focus of his talks with Tunisian President Zine El Abidine ben Ali and foreign minister Habib Ben Yahia.

Touching on relations between Spain and Tunisia, he said that these relations were "excellent" and that Spain would continue to be Tunisia's advocate within the European Union.

Tunisia signed an association agreement with the European Union in 1995 whose goal is the gradual establishment of a free exchange zone by 2007.