Morocco, China study cooperation ties

Means to upgrade Moroccan-Chinese cooperation in economic and commercial fields were surveyed at a meeting Friday between Moroccan economy, finance, privatization and tourism minister, Fathallah Oualalou, and a visiting Chinese MP delegation.

The two sides stressed the need to hoist economic and commercial exchanges to the level of the excellent political ties binding Morocco and China.

Oualalou urged China to assist Morocco in its development and modernization drives.

Chen Gangyi, President of the finance and economy committee at the Chinese parliament, said his country was ready to back Morocco's efforts for economic and social development.

Economic cooperation between Morocco and China has promising prospects, he said, adding that several Chinese enterprises wish to invest in Morocco.

China is interested in Morocco's economic reforms and in its location as a gateway for Chinese products towards Europe and Africa, he added.

Trade between Morocco and China totaled $ 280 million in 2000. China sells to Morocco tea, radio and TV sets, house appliances, fabrics and synthetic fibers, while Morocco exports to the Asian country natural and chemical fertilizers, leather items, fish products and phosphoric acid.