Morocco, Kiribati establish diplomatic relations

Morocco and the Kiribati republic decided to establish diplomatic relations as of March 21, it was officially announced here Wednesday.

The two countries decided to establish diplomatic relations as of March 21 in conformity with the Vienna convention of April 18, 1961 on diplomatic relations and on the basis of the principles stipulated in the UN charter, a statement by the Moroccan ministry of foreign affairs and cooperation said.

The decision to establish diplomatic relations was prompted by the two countries' concern "to promote their relations of friendship and cooperation," the statement said, adding the two sides are "deeply concerned that such relations will serve the two countries' interests."

The Kiribati Republic, a former British colony in the Pacific, became independent in 1979.