King Hassan II visits prime minister in hospital

King Hassan II visited Prime Minister Abderrahman Youssoufi, who is convalescing at Ibn Sina Hospital in Rabat following a minor surgery on the head performed last week.

Youssoufi underwent last week successful neurological surgery to remove a blood clot.

After he inquired about Youssoufi's health, the king gave the prime minister instructions regarding some issues related to the management of state affairs.

Youssoufi, who is leading a coalition government appointed in March 1998, also received a message from US President Bill Clinton, wishing him a prompt recovery. The US chief executive voiced admiration for Youssoufi's dedication to his country and people.

The head of the Moroccan government had received similar messages from several personalities including the Algerian and Tunisian presidents, Abdelaziz Bouteflika and Zine El-Abidine Ben Ali and the Spanish and Algerian prime ministers, Jose Maria Aznar and Smail Hamdani.

He also received a phone call from his French peer, Lionel Jospin.