Morocco hails China's stance over Sahara question

Moroccan Foreign Minister, Mohamed Benaissa, hailed in Cairo Monday, the stance of China over Morocco's national causes, especially the question of its territorial integrity and sovereignty over all its territory.

The Moroccan Sahara is a subject of dispute with the Algeria-backed separatist group 'Polisario' that is claiming the independence of this territory.

The Moroccan chief diplomat added in a meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Li Zhaoxing, it is crucial for the two countries to promote bilateral cooperation for the defense of international law and fair causes.

Benaïssa, taking part in the Arab League's council meeting of Arab foreign ministers in Cairo, said his country is determined to strengthen relations with China.

On his part, Zhaoxing, who is participating in the first ministerial meeting of the Sino-Arab cooperation forum in Cairo, voiced esteem for Morocco's position that backs China's territorial integrity within international organizations.

The two countries have signed several accords to promote bilateral cooperation.

King Mohammed VI of Morocco paid a visit to China in February 2002.