"We are pleased with the setting up of the National Charter for the Environment which outlines the Kingdom's environmental policy," Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Environment Daniel A. Reifsnyder told the press in Rabat.

    The US official termed as "excellent" the Moroccan initiative aiming to involve the citizens into environment-friendly projects.

    "It is very important to engage the civil society in the decision-making process which has a direct impact on their lives," he added, underlining the need to establish a permanent partnership on the environment between the government and civil society.

    A national commission including representatives of several government departments was tasked with mapping out a National Charter for the Environment and Sustainable Development.

    Thanks to this Charter, citizens will shoulder their responsibility regarding the environment protection, Reifsnyder said, hailing the idea to set up regional observatories for the environment in Morocco.

    The US is keen to make Morocco avail itself of its advanced technology in terms of environment protection and renewable energy.