Key ministers in Morocco to boost economic and police co-operation (VIDEO)
A major Belgian government delegation is visiting Morocco. PM Alexander De Croo (Flemish liberal) is accompanied by the Belgian interior, foreign and justice ministers as well as the asylum secretary. Government ministers are joined by top police officers and 25 captains of Belgian industry. One of the points on the agenda is facilitating the return to the country of undocumented Moroccans.
It's the first time during this parliament that such a large federal government delegation has travelled abroad. Mr De Croo says he is seeking a comprehensive agreement to ensure the Moroccan authorities accept undocumented criminals, but also that Belgian business can have the opportunity to invest: “It’s an accord that will also benefit the Moroccans and that makes them prick up their ears” the Belgian leader said.
Asylum secretary Nicole de Moor (Flemish Christian democrat) says that even the preparation of the trip had a beneficial impact on relations: “Since January we have been able to return 43 undocumented Moroccans. Our ambition is to strengthen this movement.”
The Belgian delegation is eager to stress to Morocco Belgium’s wish to co-operate. Police and intelligence cooperation are also on the agenda.