Leader of Spain's Socialist-Labor Party Arrives in Morocco

Secretary general of the Spanish labor socialist party (PSOE), Jose Rodriguez Zapatero, arrived in Rabat Sunday for a two-day visit at the invitation of Moroccan premier, Abderrahmane Youssoufi, in his capacity as first secretary of the Socialist Union of Popular forces (USFP).

Zapatero told the press upon arrival that his visit seeks to create a climate of dialogue that can contribute to the promotion of ties between Morocco and Spain and between the two countries' socialist parties (PSOE and USFP).

The PSOE leader recalled that throughout history relations between Spain and Morocco went through moments of entente and misunderstanding.

Touching on the present tension prevailing over these ties, Zapatero said a large debate took place recently in Spain on this issue. "Things are returning to calm," he said, underlining the need to intensify contacts between the two countries at all levels.

Zapatero is scheduled to hold talks with several Moroccan officials, says a statement of the USFP. The PSOE delegation will also meet leaders from the USFP and the two socialist parties will sign a cooperation agreement.

A group of journalists representing 17 Spanish news organizations will accompany Zapatero during this visit that will highlight with a joint press conference on Tuesday.