Morocco, Spain examine new cooperation in fisheries
Moroccan Secretary General for fisheries, Tijani Rhanmi, said Morocco and Spain are examining a new cooperation in fisheries, noting that cooperation between the two countries in fishing research is multifaceted and "would benefit Morocco's policy in this realm."
This statement was made at a press conference at the end of a meeting of the Moroccan-Spanish fisheries technical commission.
The official explained that cooperation aspects raised in the meeting included scientific research in deep water in order to know the biomass of species living in Moroccan coasts and that are not accessible to the Moroccan traditional fishing fleet.
According to Rhanmi, the two parties defined an action framework, and are endeavoring to improve it for a concrete cooperation in fisheries.
"This aspect of cooperation will allow us to assess the biomass and the possibility of its exploitation," he pointed out.
A Spanish scientific ship "Vizconde De Eza" will conduct research in collaboration with National Institute for fishing research, he said.
The Moroccan-Spanish commission, he added, will also examine fishing in rocky zones, the sea environment and aquaculture, as well as training in fishing related fields.
Visiting Spanish Secretary General for Fisheries, Juan Carlos Martin Fragueiro, said dates for an upcoming meeting that will convene the two sides was set for October 7. He said his country is resolved to consolidate fisheries cooperation with Morocco.
Fragueiro has announced that Spanish Agriculture, Fisheries and Food minister, Elena Espinosa, will visit Morocco end of November.
On Thursday, Moroccan Communication Minister, Nabil Benabdellah said Morocco has still not made a decision on the renewal of the fishing agreement with Spain, noting this issue will be discussed part of moves to improve bilateral ties.
He added that this question will be discussed taking into account "our national interests and those of Moroccan employees and investors in the sector."
