Moroccan premier voices concern over Netanyahu's intransigence

Moroccan Premier Abderrahmane Youssoufi voiced Thursday Morocco's concern over the Israeli premier's "intransigence" and his refusal to implement the peace accords signed with the Palestinians.

In a statement carried Thursday by Egyptian al-Ahram daily, Youssoufi said "Morocco refuses any cooperation with Israel" and stated that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has provided evidence of his intransigence, inflexibility and ill-intent regarding respect for already-signed peace deals.

The Moroccan premier called in this regard on the United States and the European Union to pressure Israel to respect of its responsibilities and peace commitments.

He also called on the Arab states to "adopt a unified, coherent and strong stand" to counter the Israeli positions.

"If Arab countries do not stand by the Palestinian people and leaders, Netanyahu will not change his stands and will continue to defy the Arabs and spoil the legitimate rights of Palestinian people," the Moroccan premier said.

After underlining Morocco's role in the Mideast peace process and the Palestinian cause, the Moroccan premier said King Hassan II has always endeavored for the establishment of peace and stability in the Mideast region.

Palestinian President Yasser Arafat and Netanyahu are currently meeting in the USA under the auspices of Washington to unlock the peace process, which has been at a standstill for 19 months.