Child parliament opens 2nd session in Rabat

Morocco's Princess Lalla Meriem (sister of King Mohammed VI) opened on Thursday the 2nd national session of the child parliament, in the presence of Prime Minister Abderrahmane Youssoufi and other cabinet members and several foreign figures.

The princess read out a message by the Moroccan king who said that the marking of the national child day is a happy occasion as all components of the Moroccan society come together to assess efforts made in the country and identify priorities to support an earnest and concerted action likely to help face challenges.

The king stressed that despite significant strides made in the protection and promotion of children, in realms of education and health, the process is set to be carried on as social problems challenges continue to undermine efforts at the expense of children.

The royal message voiced appreciation for the items on the agenda, which are related to ill-treatment and exploitation of children that the king described as a dishonor for any society. The king called participants, government departments, experts and associations to analyze thoroughly various issues related to this injustice against children, identify causes and propose solutions to fight all kinds of child exploitation.

Promotion of solidarity culture among children and the contributions they can make to Morocco's bid to host 2006 world cup are also on the agenda.

The 357-member child parliament, a unique experience in the Arab states, is a forum of meetings and exchanges and an opportunity for children to express their opinion and propose solutions.

The institution is composed of pupils representing the same constituencies as those represented in the adults parliament, with 6% of seats held by handicapped children and 4% to deaf-mute children. Four children represent pupils attending foreign schools in Morocco and 6 members represent students of vocational training centers and children of the Moroccan community living abroad.