Morocco calls for Egyptian membership in Arab Maghreb Union

Moroccan Foreign Minister Mohamed Benaissa stated the importance of Egypt joining as a full member of the Arab Maghreb Union.

He said in statements to the Egyptian radio Sawt Al-Arab that, "We cannot imagine having a large Arab Maghreb on the Mediterranean Sea without Egypt, adding that Morocco's King Hassan II confirmed this many times because it means greater economic integrity and greater contact in all fields for the union's member states.

He expressed his country's hope to see Arab atmospheres characterized by interests and conformity in order to prepare for convening a comprehensive Arab summit.

He expressed his optimism regarding peace process after Israeli Prime Minsiter Ehud Barak took office, adding that everything depends on what Barak does and whether he is serious in implementing agreements and commitments as he promised.