King Mohammed's visit to give new impetus to Moroccan- Indian relations, Indian press

The official visit that King Mohammed VI is currently paying to India will give a new impetus to relations between Morocco and the Sub-continent, the Indian press said.

In comments of the Royal visit, the wide-circulation "The Hindu," "the Times of India" and "the Asian Age" dailies underlined that this historical visit will consolidate bilateral ties, as several accords will be concluded during the King's stay, especially a joint political statement.

The dailies highlighted the moderation of Morocco's foreign policy.

Morocco which is taking the path of moderation at internal and external levels, will certainly join India in rejecting international terrorism, extremism and separatism in all their forms, said "The Hindu" daily, while "The Asian Age" expected the joint declaration, that will crown the visit, to decry international terrorism.

"The Times of India" underlined the influence Morocco has within the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) and its contribution the settlement of issues debated within the body.

The Indian dailies also highlighted New Delhi's decision to cancel recognition of the mirage "Sahrawi Republic," a decision that will give a new impetus to bilateral relations. "The dispute (over the Sahara) still exists, but India has clearly taken the side of Morocco," said "the Times of India."

The political ties between India and Morocco made great steps ahead last year when New Delhi withdrew recognition of the Sadr," said "the Hindu."

Touching on economic relations, the dailies noted that Morocco, thanks to its rich phosphates resources, is a special partner of India in the Arab World. The dailies also surveyed Morocco's economic performances and its relations with the European Union. They did not rule out the possibility for Morocco to become an associate member of the European Union.

Morocco is the Arab Nation that succeeded its integration in the new world economic order, the dailies said.

The papers also lauded King Mohammed VI's determination to consolidate democracy and the rule of law.