King hails action of the government on first anniversary

King Hassan II hailed the government's action over the past year and called on them to adhere to the virtues of teamwork.

Following a ministers council held on Friday under the chairmanship of the king, the sovereign called the Socialist-led coalition government, appointed on March 14 1998, to persevere in their quest for positive results regardless of the difficulties they encounter.

For Prime Minister Abderrahmane Youssoufi, the major projects announced by the government when it was appointed are being carried out, as regards modernizing and improving the performance of administration and justice and reforming the sectors of economy, public finance, education and training.

The prime minister, who was interviewed by Al Alam daily, said the first results of these reforms are very encouraging and signs of economic takeoff are numerous. He cited the considerable increase in national and international investment, the new mentality in the administration and the principles of law transparency, justice and good management of public funds.

He added that Morocco enjoys political and social stability and credibility in the management of public finance, since it succeeded in curbing inflation, budget deficit and indebtedness.

Morocco's reputation abroad is one of a country moving to modernize its political, social and economic life.

Regarding the issue of human rights, Youssoufi said measures were taken to settle these problems with the ongoing resolution of the problem of missing persons and of civil servants who were fired for their trade union or political activities. He added that reforms will also include the electoral laws to ensure the credibility of coming elections.

Addressing the issue of unemployment, the prime minister said the government is giving top priority to restoring dignity and hope to the youth, arguing that the most appropriate solution lies in encouraging investments and creating new job opportunities.

"The government is currently developing comprehensive and integrated strategies of social development, in order to extend access of social services to all categories, both in cities and in rural areas," said the prime minister before concluding "lasting political and economic stability is not possible without economic and social development."