Moroccan-Spanish Statement Following Foreign Ministers' Meeting

After talks held in Rabat Monday by Moroccan minister of foreign affairs and cooperation, Mohamed Benaissa, and Spanish foreign minister, Ana De Palacio, the two countries released the following joint statement:

"The ministers of foreign affairs of the Kingdom of Spain and the Kingdom of Morocco formally confirmed the agreement to restore and maintain the situation regarding the Island Perejil/Toura that existed prior to July 2002, as understood by secretary of state of the United States of America Mr. Colin powell on July 20th, 2002.

"The actions of both sides in this matter will be without prejudice to their positions regarding the status of the island. Both sides will implement this understanding in good faith."

"Both sides also agreed to open a frank and sincere dialogue in order to strengthen their bilateral relations. To this effect, both Ministers have decided to meet in Madrid in September 2002."

The Spanish foreign minister was in Rabat this Monday for talks with her Moroccan peer, after the two countries reached on Saturday a US-sponsored understanding under which Spain withdrew its troops from the Moroccan Mediterranean Islet of Toura/Leila following a four-day occupation.