Human rights high commissioner hails as constructive Morocco's role in preparing world conference on racism

UN high commissioner for human rights, Ms Mary Robinson, hailed as constructive and acting Morocco's role in preparations for the world conference on racism scheduled for next summer.

Ms Robinson made the statement at a meeting in Geneva Tuesday with Moroccan minister of human rights, Mohamed Aujjar, who is taking part in the 57th session of the human rights commission, held in Geneva March 19 through April 27.

Talks covered preparations for the world conference on racism to take place in Durban, south Africa, August 31 through September 7 and Ms Robinson voiced appreciation for Morocco's positive role during the regional preparatory meeting held in Dakar, Senegal. Thanks to its pragmatism and moderation and to its balanced and realistic standpoint, the Moroccan delegation has greatly contributed to reach stands likely to secure the conference success, Ms Robinson said.

Aujjar briefed the UN high commissioner on the progress scored by Morocco in human rights matters and mentioned the evolution operated at the level of the Human rights Advisory Council to meet the requirements as to the independence and autonomy of human rights institutions, the setting up of a commission to amend the personal statute, the campaigns staged in favor of young girls, and the efforts made to consecrate human rights culture.

Ms Robinson expressed satisfaction at the "noteworthy progress" scored by Morocco and said she had been impressed during her latest visit to the kingdom (in April 2000) by the resolve of King Mohammed VI to go forward regarding the promotion of human rights and public freedoms, not only through the governmental action but also through the action of ngos and other civil society organizations.