Amamo optimistic over reviving Arab Maghreb Union

The secretary general of the Arab Maghreb Union, Muhammad Amamou,on Thursday expressed in Nouakchott "his great hope to revive" the activities of the regional organization, suspended as a result of partitions among its member states.

Mauritanian President Maaouya Ould Sid Ahmed Taya received the federation's secretary general who is visiting Mauritania.

Mauritania, however, has been exposed to sharp criticism from the Arab states after its recent decision to establish full diplomatic relations with Israel.

Following his meeting with the Mauritaniaí President Amamou said, "I have great hopes in reviving the federation very soon." President Tayeí reiterated his clinging to the Arab Maghreb federation and the service of the Arab Maghreb states."

Besides Mauritania, the federation includes four other Maghreb states: Morocco, Libya, Tunisia and Algeria.