EU wants gradual agreement with Morocco in agricultural produce

Head of the European delegation in Rabat, ambassador Sean Doyle, said the European Union is seeking a "gradual" agreement with Morocco on agricultural produce with a clause providing for revision every five years.

After five years, the agreement will be re-negotiated on the basis of an appraisal of the system, Doyle told "Le Terroir" newsletter published by the Moroccan ministry of agriculture and rural development.

Agriculture is one big and difficult issue and we are trying to avoid confusing things, said the EU chief diplomat who deemed it appropriate to start negotiations before mobilizing the MEDA funds to support the Moroccan government in bringing about the needed changes to upgrade various agricultural sectors.

To a question on Morocco's aspiration to enjoy a special status in its relations with the EU, Doyle said it is "legitimate and understandable" that Morocco claims such a status given that Morocco emerged in the south Mediterranean region as top of the class regarding such areas as democracy, political liberalization and economic reforms.