Moroccan-Spanish cooperation “can only go in one direction, namely to establish the best relations possible,” he said during a joint press conference in Rabat with his Spanish counterpart Manuel Rajoy, describing as “positive” his talks with his Spanish host, which paves the way for a series of meetings and cordial relations between the two countries.

The meeting with the Spanish Premiere was marked by “clarity and openness,” he said, noting that the two sides agreed to hold further meetings, including senior-level meetings.

For his part, Rajoy, who described himself as “a friend of Morocco,” said that Spain “strongly” supports the reform process in the Kingdom which is a “model” for other countries, expressing his determination to foster economic, trade and cultural ties between the two neighbours.

This visit is intended “to inaugurate a new phase based on the consolidation of excellent relations of friendship and good neighbourliness between Rabat and Madrid,” he pointed out, noting that the security, stability and prosperity of both countries are closely related.

The two governments should hold, over the year, a high-level meeting, which will coincide with the 21th anniversary of the treaty of friendship and good neighbourliness, Rajoy said, noting that relations with Benkirane’s government will be guided by “cooperation and dialogue,” with greater involvement of civil society.

Spain is the second partner and investor in Morocco, with some 800 companies doing business in the kingdom, he said, describing as “satisfactory” the first contact with his Moroccan counterpart and wishing “a better mutual understanding.”

During his visit to Morocco, the first official visit abroad as Prime Minister, Rajoy was received by HM King Mohammed VI at the royal palace in Rabat.

01/18/2012