Morocco, India sign MoU in diplomatic affairs, cultural exchange program

Morocco and India signed here Tuesday a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and a cultural exchange program covering the period from 2016 to 2019.

Inked by the Moroccan Academy of Diplomatic Studies (AMED) and the Indian Foreign Service Institute, in the presence of Moroccan Head of Government, Abdelilah Benkirane, and visiting Indian Vice-President, Mohammed Hamid Ansari, the two agreements are meant to boost cooperation in the diplomatic and cultural fields.

Under the memorandum, the two parties agree to exchange information on training programs for diplomats, experts and researchers, strengthen communication and exchange of expert visits and exchange publications and useful information.

The cultural exchange program aims to reinforce cooperation in the field of music, art and archives, cultural heritage, cultural activities through the exchange of expertise and information in the related fields.

Under this program, the two countries will exchange visits between classical and popular theatre groups and promote cooperation in the field of youth and sports through the exchange of documents, information and experience.

The program also provides for boosting bilateral cooperation in the fields of radio and television programs of common interest, promoting cooperation in the field of movie production, co-organizing movie weeks and exchanging experience and information in film shooting.

India's Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari arrived late on Monday in Rabat for an official three-day visit.

Ansari is also expected to meet key Moroccan Prime Minister Abdelilah Benkirane. Both leaders will launch the India-Morocco Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Morocco is Ansari's first leg in his tour in North Africa. He will visit Tunisia on June 2 and 3. Endit