MINURSO Resolution and reactions; EU-Morocco talks on "advanced status," e.g. FDI and regional integration

From: Pence, Anne [mailto:apence@cov.com]

Sent: Wednesday, April 25, 2012 9:47 AM
To: Bill Hayes; Joe Matthews; Hugh McDowell; Larson, Alan; Edward Gabriel; Fatima Kurtz
Subject: MINURSO Resolution and reactions; EU-Morocco talks on "advanced status," e.g. FDI and regional integration

It is "clean" but those involved (e.g. Morocco) may also see messages they may not like -- such as exhortations to provide "unhindered movement", etc. which harken to elements of the SG's report.  At same time, the Resolution is positive about Morocco's steps on human rights, and some by the Polisario with UNHCR.   It references the Moroccan autonomy proposal, but also a 2007 Polisario proposal.    It offers continued support for the Ross process, and mentions that natural resources have been discussed in that context.

Morocco's public comments are interesting too -- stresses the importance of self-determination (but indicates concern that a referendum would cause tension at an already tense time.

Meanwhile, EU-Morocco discussion were held in Luxembourg to prepare for the ag trade liberaization agreement in effect July 1 and to discuss a range of other issues under Morocco's "advanced status," including regional integration, the AMU and the positive trend in Morocco-Algeria relations.

Anne