Morocco-Russia ties excellent, trade still modest (diplomat)

Though political and diplomatic ties between Morocco and Russia are deep-rooted in history (2nd half of 18th century), the two countries' economic and trade exchanges remain modest, and below their potential, said Monday Russian ambassador to Rabat, Youri Kotov Mikhailovich.

During recent years, Morocco and Russia gave their relationships a new impetus, but their exchange volume only reached US$ 380 million in 2002, the diplomat told MAP on the sidelines of the a meeting titled "Realities and perspectives of Morocco-Russia cooperation," initiated by the Morocco-Russia friendship association.

King Mohammed VI's official visit to Russia October 2002 was crowned with the signing of important documents in several areas, Mikhailovich said, citing the declaration on strategic partnership, which draws the future of the two nations' relations in all fields.

Morocco's is one of Russia's most important partners in Africa, the ambassador said, praising the two countries' convergence of views on a number of international issues.

The diplomat announced a visit February 25 of a delegation from the Douma (lower chamber of Russian parliament) to Morocco, led by the chamber speaker.

Chairman of the Moroccan-Russian friendship association, Abtellatif Bahraoui, said "our cultural and technical cooperation must be enhanced and expanded to tourism."

Morocco's main imports from Russia are crude oil, iron, sulfur, wheat, soft wheat and fertilizers, natural and chemical.

The kingdom's exports to Russia are mainly citrus fruits, potatoes, tomatoes, flour and fish powder.