Morocco, Niger discuss cooperation in struggle against desertification

Cooperation between Morocco and Niger in the struggle against desert encroachment, environment protection and agriculture in general was discussed at a meeting in Rabat.

The meeting, that gathered visiting Niger's minister of environment and struggle against desertification, Issouffou Issoumane, and Moroccan secretary of state of environment, Ahmed Iraqi, stressed the need to enhance the exchange of experience in matters of environment and agriculture.

The visiting official said that Morocco is a pilot country in struggle against desertification and that Niger can learn a great deal from the kingdom.

Morocco and Niger concluded in July 1998 a cooperation protocol in matters of water resources management.

The accord provides for the participation of Moroccan experts in studies on the management of surface, underground and rain water in Niger.

The accord also stipulates cooperation in matters of staff training and exchange of experience in addition to the participation of Moroccan experts in the construction of a dam in Niger.