"Morocco is a country that has achieved tremendous progress in terms of democratic reforms and openness," Jiménez told Spanish daily "El Mundo" on Sunday.

    "We have to acknowledge the achievements made by Morocco within its regional environment," she went on, stressing the importance of maintaining good relations between the two neighboring countries.

    Jiménez recalled that, unlike other countries of the region, Morocco has, for few years now, embarked on a process of reforms and democratization.

    She said her country adopts a stand of "effective impartiality" with regard to the Sahara issue, calling on the parties to reach an agreement to put an end to this conflict.