Sixty four Galicia vessels authorized to fish in Moroccan waters

Sixty-four vessels from the Spanish oil slick-affected region of Galicia will be allowed to fish in Moroccan waters for free for three months.

The decision was announced in Rabat this Monday afternoon in implementation of a decision made this December 13 by King Mohammed VI to give Galicia ships exceptional access to Moroccan Exclusive Economic Zone for a three month-period, renewable in light of the situation evolution on the ground.

The agreement was signed following discussions between Moroccan sea fisheries minister, Tayeb Rhafes, and Spanish minister of agriculture, fishing and food, Miguel Arias Canete.

It is up to Spain to set a date for the enforcement of the agreement.

In a press conference following the agreement signing, the Spanish minister expressed the "deep gratitude" of the Spanish government and people for "the exceptional token of solidarity" given by King Mohammed VI.