Canada backs negotiated solution to Sahara issue

Ambassador of Canada in Rabat, Yves Gagnon, said his country is in favor of "a negotiated solution to the Sahara question."

The Canadian diplomat told Moroccan "L'Opinion" daily on Tuesday that Canada, which has never recognized SADR (the so-called Sahrawi Republic), backs United Nations efforts in its international policy.

Gagnon added that Morocco's strategic choice concerning openness, democracy and development are important steps coinciding with a joint constructive work to promote relations.

On bilateral cooperation, the diplomat said two major axes of cooperation will be developed in the five coming years concerning vocational training. He also pointed out to an inclination in Moroccan universities to better acquaint students with Canada and to make Morocco the first studies network in the North American country.

The Canadian official recalled that trade exchanges with Canada are estimated at US $400 million.