Japan seeks Morocco's support for permanent seat in UN Security Council

Japan is currently seeking Morocco's support to obtain a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council.

This came at a meeting, in Rabat Wednesday, between visiting Japanese Parliament Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Katsuyuki Kawai and Moroccan officials on the reform of the UN Security Council and Japan's candidacy for a permanent seat at the Council.

Kawai called, at a press conference, for the reinforcement of relations with Morocco, which he described as a "leading country in North Africa and the Middle East in the promotion of human rights."

The Japanese official discussed with Moroccan Prime Minister, Driss Jettou, relations between the two countries and cooperation programs initiated in Morocco by Japanese agencies, notably the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in education, training, fisheries and environment.

The Moroccan premier underscored cooperation outlooks, notably after the free trade accords that Morocco has concluded with different countries, and which may be a platform for Japanese enterprises seeking new markets.

Kawai said, on his part, that his country is committed to encouraging Japanese investments in Morocco.

The Japanese official also held talks with Foreign Minister, Mohamed Benaissa, and Minister delegate for Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Taieb Fassi Fihri.