Morocco, Russia start talks on new fisheries accord

Morocco and Russia started in Moscow Thursday talks for the conclusion of a new bilateral fisheries accord to replace a 1995 agreement that expired in 1999.

Morocco wants to establish a new fisheries cooperation with Russia to be in line with the Kingdom's concern to safeguard its fish stock, Rhanmi Tijani, secretary-general of the Moroccan fisheries department told MAP news agency.

Tijani is leading the Moroccan side to the talks with the Russian officials.

The official informed the Russian party that it is not possible to renew the 1995 accord and that a new form of cooperation should be found.

Morocco had refused to renew a similar accord with the European Union that expired in 1999.